At intersections, crosswalks, and railroad crossings, you should always:
Stop, listen, and proceed cautiously.
Look to the sides of your vehicle to see what is coming.
Slowly pass vehicles that seem to be stopped for no reason.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
Look to the sides of your vehicle to see what is coming.
Explanation:
When driving through intersections, crosswalks, or railroad crossings, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. These areas are high-risk locations where accidents can happen quickly if a driver is not paying attention. The recommended approach is to look to the sides of your vehicle to see what is coming because this increases your awareness of potential hazards that could be approaching from different directions.
- Intersections: At intersections, drivers are often required to yield the right-of-way or stop. Looking to the sides ensures that you are aware of cross-traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists who might not be visible from your initial vantage point. This precaution is especially critical in busy urban areas or when making turns. Never assume the intersection is clear; always check for other vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.
- Crosswalks: When approaching crosswalks, especially at intersections without traffic lights, always slow down and look for pedestrians. Pedestrians may be crossing even if they aren’t clearly visible from a distance, so looking around your vehicle ensures that you spot anyone walking in or near the crosswalk. Yielding to pedestrians is both a legal and ethical responsibility.
- Railroad Crossings: At railroad crossings, the risk of a collision with a train makes it essential to approach cautiously. Trains can be quieter than expected, and you may not hear one approaching until it’s too late. Looking to the sides of your vehicle helps ensure that there are no other trains coming on parallel tracks. In addition, you should always stop, listen, and proceed cautiously at a railroad crossing if you see signals indicating an approaching train.
By using all your senses and staying aware of your surroundings—by looking to the sides of your vehicle—you can react more quickly and avoid potential accidents.