When should you slow down, yield, and be prepared to stop for pedestrians?

Slowing down, yielding, and being prepared to stop for pedestrians is essential for ensuring their safety, especially when they are actively crossing or walking on the roadway. When approaching pedestrians in these situations, drivers must be particularly vigilant because pedestrians have the right of way in most circumstances. This responsibility places an emphasis on the need for drivers to be alert and prepared to take necessary actions to avoid accidents.

While pedestrians at a bus stop may be a consideration for caution, they are not necessarily crossing the roadway; thus, the driver might not need to yield unless the pedestrian is stepping into the road. Similarly, traffic signs may indicate specific pedestrian crossings, but it is crucial to exercise caution and yield regardless of those signs whenever a pedestrian is present in the roadway. Lastly, simply seeing a pedestrian on the sidewalk does not require immediate action, as they are not in a position that impacts the flow of traffic.

Acknowledging the presence of pedestrians, particularly when they are crossing the road, reinforces safe driving habits and fosters a safer environment for everyone on the road.