Georgia DDS Practice Test

What should a driver do when they encounter a pedestrian in a crosswalk?

1. Speed up to clear the intersection first.

2. Honk to alert the pedestrian.

3. Yield and allow the pedestrian to cross safely.

4. Change lanes to avoid any potential issue.

The correct answer is: Yield and allow the pedestrian to cross safely.

When a driver encounters a pedestrian in a crosswalk, it is essential to yield and allow the pedestrian to cross safely. This practice is not only a legal requirement in most jurisdictions, including Georgia, but it also reflects responsible and safe driving behavior. Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, and by yielding, drivers help to ensure the safety of both the pedestrian and themselves. Yielding means coming to a complete stop if necessary to allow pedestrians to cross, maintaining a safe distance from them, and waiting until they have completely cleared the crosswalk before proceeding. This action promotes a safer roadway environment for everyone, encourages respectful interactions between drivers and pedestrians, and helps to prevent accidents at intersections, which are common conflict points. In contrast, speeding up, honking, or changing lanes to avoid a pedestrian can lead to dangerous situations. Speeding might not give the pedestrian enough time to cross, while honking can startle them, potentially causing them to stop or move unpredictably. Changing lanes might create confusion and could endanger other road users, including other pedestrians or vehicles. Thus, the most responsible action when encountering a pedestrian in a crosswalk is to yield and ensure their safe passage.