This sign means
- pedestrian controlled crosswalk; if light is flashing be prepared to stop ✓
- pedestrian controlled crosswalk; if light is solid be prepared to stop
- pedestrian has the right of way at all times
- proceed quickly before pedestrians start to walk
Answer: A. pedestrian controlled crosswalk; if light is flashing be prepared to stop
The sign means it is a pedestrian controlled crosswalk, and you should be prepared to stop if the light is flashing.
Why this is the answer
The handbook lists pedestrian activated crosswalk signs as telling drivers to prepare to stop when the light is flashing. It also explains that crosswalks with flashing green lights are controlled by pedestrians: when someone is standing nearby, they have likely pressed the button and the light is about to change. That is why the correct response is to slow down and be ready to stop at this type of crossing.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. pedestrian controlled crosswalk; if light is solid be prepared to stop — A solid light is not the warning described in the handbook; the pedestrian activated crosswalk sign calls for preparation to stop when the light is flashing.
- C. pedestrian has the right of way at all times — The handbook describes a specific flashing-light warning at a pedestrian controlled crossing, not a rule that pedestrians have the right of way at all times.
- D. proceed quickly before pedestrians start to walk — The handbook says to slow down and be prepared to stop, so speeding through before pedestrians start walking is the opposite of the instructed response.
Remember it
When the light flashes at a pedestrian crossing, picture someone about to step out: ease off and get ready to stop.