North Carolina DMV Practice Test

What action is advisable when approaching a busy crosswalk?

1. Speed up to clear it quickly

2. Watch for pedestrians

3. Ignore crosswalk markings

4. Always yield to bicycles

The correct answer is: Watch for pedestrians

When approaching a busy crosswalk, the advisable action is to watch for pedestrians. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of both drivers and those on foot. Busy crosswalks are typically high-traffic areas where pedestrians may be crossing at any time. Being vigilant and scanning the area allows drivers to observe individuals who may be waiting to cross or already in the process of doing so. It is essential for drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians to prevent accidents and promote safety. Furthermore, many jurisdictions, including North Carolina, have laws that require drivers to stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks, making this action not just advisable but a legal obligation. Focusing on pedestrians can also prevent a variety of dangerous situations, such as sudden stops or swerving to avoid individuals in the road. In contrast, speeding up can lead to accidents, ignoring crosswalk markings undermines pedestrian safety, and while yielding to bicycles is important, it does not take precedence over the need to watch for pedestrians who have the right-of-way at crosswalks.