A pedestrian starts to cross in front of your vehicle. You should:
- Flash your lights.
- Slow down.
- Speed up and pass in front of the pedestrian.
- Stop and let the pedestrian cross. ✓
Answer: D. Stop and let the pedestrian cross.
You should stop and let the pedestrian cross.
Why this is the answer
The handbook says pedestrians who are legally crossing at marked or unmarked crossings, like an intersection, always have the right-of-way. It tells you to decrease your speed or, if necessary, come to a complete stop. When a pedestrian is already crossing in front of you, slowing is not enough — you stop and let them finish crossing. The manual also notes that elderly people and persons with disabilities may need extra time, so patience matters.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Flash your lights. — Flashing your lights does nothing to protect the pedestrian and does not satisfy the rule that you must slow down or stop for them.
- B. Slow down. — Slowing down is only part of what the handbook asks; once a pedestrian is crossing in front of you, you may need to come to a complete stop.
- C. Speed up and pass in front of the pedestrian. — Speeding up to pass in front of a crossing pedestrian ignores their right-of-way and is the opposite of the required slow down or stop.
Remember it
If someone is already in the crosswalk ahead of you, treat the brake pedal as your answer, not the gas or the light switch.