Minnesota Permit Practice Test

What should you do when you see a stop sign?

1. Slow down and proceed if clear

2. Stop completely before proceeding

3. Yield to oncoming traffic

4. Accelerate to cross quickly

The correct answer is: Stop completely before proceeding

When you encounter a stop sign, the correct action is to stop completely before proceeding. This requirement is in place to ensure that drivers give right of way to other vehicles and pedestrians at intersections. A complete stop allows you to assess the situation thoroughly, checking for any oncoming traffic or obstacles before moving forward. This action promotes safety by reducing the risk of collisions at intersections, where failure to stop can lead to serious accidents. It is important to remember that simply slowing down does not fulfill the legal requirement to stop at a stop sign. Additionally, while yielding to oncoming traffic and being cautious of pedestrians is important, these actions come after making a complete stop. Accelerating to cross quickly is also not advisable, as it increases the risk of accidents. Therefore, the requirement to stop completely ensures that drivers can make safe decisions based on the current traffic situation.