What is the correct action when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk during an intersection approach?

• A. Continue through with caution; do not stop.
• B. Honk to alert the pedestrian and proceed.
• C. Stop only if the pedestrian makes eye contact.
• D. Yield and stop if necessary; proceed only when crosswalk is clear and safe.

Answer: (D)

When a pedestrian is in a crosswalk during an approach to an intersection, the essential idea is that people have the right of way in crosswalks. The best action is to yield and stop if necessary, and only proceed when the crosswalk is clear and it is safe to do so. This means you should slow down as you near the intersection, scan for pedestrians, and be prepared to stop before you reach or in the crosswalk to allow the person to finish crossing. You should not rely on eye contact or on honking as the primary method of safety, and you should not continue through simply with cautious intent. Even if the pedestrian seems to be waiting or looks like they might yield, you must give them the right of way and stop if needed. Once the crosswalk is unoccupied and there is a safe gap in traffic, you may proceed.