What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, the correct action is to stop at the marked stop line. This is crucial for ensuring safety and complying with traffic laws. At a stop sign, drivers are required to come to a complete stop, allowing them to assess their surroundings and ensure that it is safe to proceed. This step is essential for preventing accidents and promoting smooth traffic flow.

Stopping at the marked stop line also provides clear guidelines for interacting with other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, who might be crossing at the intersection. It ensures visibility and awareness of any vehicles or obstacles that may not be immediately apparent while in motion.

Although yielding to traffic or proceeding if the intersection is clear may seem practical, these actions do not align with the legal requirements at a stop sign. It is important to stop first to properly judge the situation before making any decisions to enter the intersection.