Hawaii Drivers Permit Practice Test

How should you approach a stop sign?

1. Slow down and proceed with caution.

2. Stop only if traffic is present.

3. Completely stop before any intersection.

4. Only stop if there are other cars nearby.

The correct answer is: Completely stop before any intersection.

When approaching a stop sign, the correct procedure is to come to a complete stop before reaching the intersection. This is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with traffic laws. Stopping completely allows you to assess the surrounding area for any pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles that may be approaching from different directions. It is crucial because some intersections may have vehicles or pedestrians that are not immediately visible until you come to a full stop and look in all directions. Stopping completely also helps in gaining full alertness to any potential hazards, ensuring you can make informed decisions about when to proceed. This aligns with the objective of traffic signs—to manage the flow of traffic and enhance safety for all road users. The other choices imply varying levels of caution that do not meet the legal requirement or safety measures associated with stop signs. For instance, merely slowing down without stopping or only stopping if there are other vehicles present can lead to dangerous situations, such as failing to yield to pedestrians or misjudging the proximity of other vehicles. Thus, the requirement to completely stop at a stop sign is fundamental for proper road conduct.