Minnesota Permit Practice Test

What should drivers do when approaching a pedestrian crossing?

1. Speed up to clear it quickly

2. Slow down and prepare to stop

3. Change lanes to avoid stopping

4. Ignore it if the light is green

The correct answer is: Slow down and prepare to stop

When approaching a pedestrian crossing, the appropriate response is to slow down and prepare to stop. This action ensures the safety of pedestrians who may be crossing the road or waiting to cross. Drivers must be vigilant and attentive in these areas, as pedestrians have the right-of-way in most situations where crosswalks are present. By reducing speed and being prepared to halt, drivers can react promptly to any pedestrians who may begin to cross the street, thereby preventing accidents and promoting a safer environment for everyone on the road. The other choices represent unsafe practices that could endanger pedestrians. Speeding up creates a hazardous situation where the driver may not have enough time to react to someone in the crosswalk. Changing lanes could lead to confusion and potential collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians, while ignoring the crosswalk altogether, especially when the light is green, shows a disregard for pedestrian rights and safety.