What should you do if you encounter a pedestrian at a crosswalk?

When you encounter a pedestrian at a crosswalk, the appropriate action is to stop and yield to the pedestrian. This practice is rooted in traffic laws designed to protect pedestrians, who are vulnerable road users. Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks, and stopping allows them to safely cross the street without the risk of being struck by a vehicle.

Yielding to pedestrians not only follows legal requirements but also promotes safety and responsible driving behavior. It is essential for drivers to be attentive and proactive in giving way to pedestrians, especially in designated crossing areas, as this fosters a cooperative environment on the road and helps prevent accidents.

In contrast, continuing to drive at a normal speed or speeding up to pass the pedestrian can lead to dangerous situations, including collisions. Honking the horn as an alert is generally unnecessary and could be considered aggressive or startling to the pedestrian, potentially causing confusion and increasing the risk of an accident. Overall, yielding to pedestrians demonstrates respect for traffic laws and enhances the safety of everyone on the road.