When may you proceed through an intersection that has a stop sign but no stop line or crosswalk?
Answers
After slowing down to verify that there is no cross traffic
After coming to a complete stop and verifying that it is safe to proceed
After you have stopped at least 20 feet prior to the intersection
After slowing down to a speed of 10 mph
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is:
After coming to a complete stop and verifying that it is safe to proceed.
Explanation:
When approaching an intersection with a stop sign but no stop line or crosswalk, the primary requirement is that you must come to a complete stop. The absence of a stop line or crosswalk doesn’t change this rule. A complete stop is required to ensure the safety of the driver, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
1. Complete Stop:
A “complete stop” means bringing your vehicle to a full halt, not just rolling through the intersection at a slow speed. Even though there is no stop line or crosswalk, you must still stop before entering the intersection. This ensures that you can properly assess the situation and avoid any potential hazards, such as cross traffic or pedestrians.
2. Verifying It Is Safe to Proceed:
After stopping, you need to check for any other vehicles approaching the intersection, pedestrians, or any other obstacles that might be in your path. This includes looking left, right, and ahead to make sure no cross traffic or pedestrians are present. Once you verify that it is safe, you may proceed through the intersection.
3. Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
- Slowing down to verify that there is no cross traffic: While slowing down is important, it does not replace the requirement to stop. You must come to a full stop, not just slow down, before proceeding.
- Stopping at least 20 feet prior to the intersection: The specific distance is not the focus. What matters is stopping at the appropriate point before the intersection, but this doesn’t always equate to 20 feet. The key requirement is stopping at a safe distance, not necessarily at a specific measurement.
- Slowing down to a speed of 10 mph: Slowing down to 10 mph does not meet the legal requirement to stop. You must come to a complete stop and then check for safety before proceeding.
In summary, regardless of the lack of a stop line or crosswalk, you must come to a complete stop at the intersection and ensure it is safe to proceed.