Nova Scotia Driving Test Practice: Ace your driving test

What must a driver do when approaching a pedestrian at a marked crosswalk?

1. Speed up to pass the crosswalk

2. Yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian

3. Sound the horn to warn the pedestrian

4. Ignore the pedestrian if they are waiting

The correct answer is: Yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian

When approaching a pedestrian at a marked crosswalk, a driver is required to yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian. This is essential for ensuring the safety of pedestrians who may be crossing the road. Crosswalks are designated areas that indicate where pedestrians expect to cross, and drivers are legally obligated to allow them to do so safely. Yielding means slowing down or stopping if necessary, allowing the pedestrian to cross without obstruction. This rule is fundamental for maintaining order on the roads and protecting vulnerable road users like pedestrians, who have no protection compared to vehicles. The other options describe actions that would either endanger pedestrians or violate traffic laws. For instance, speeding up to pass the crosswalk disregards the presence of pedestrians and increases the risk of accidents. Sounding the horn to warn pedestrians can lead to confusion and is generally not considered an appropriate or safe method of communication in these situations. Ignoring a waiting pedestrian altogether fails to recognize their right-of-way, potentially leading to dangerous encounters. Hence, yielding the right-of-way is critical in promoting safe interactions between drivers and pedestrians.