Nova Scotia Driving Test Practice: Ace your driving test

What must you do when approaching a stop sign?

1. Slow down and yield to traffic

2. Come to a complete stop and yield to any traffic or pedestrians

3. Stop only if other vehicles are present

4. Ignore it if there are no cars around

The correct answer is: Come to a complete stop and yield to any traffic or pedestrians

When approaching a stop sign, it is essential to come to a complete stop and yield to any traffic or pedestrians. This action is crucial for ensuring the safety of all road users, as it allows for adequate time to assess the intersection for any vehicles or pedestrians that may be present before proceeding. A complete stop gives drivers a chance to observe their surroundings thoroughly and make safe decisions. Yielding to traffic means giving the right of way to any vehicles already in the intersection or approaching it, as well as being vigilant for pedestrians who may be crossing. This practice helps prevent accidents and ensures that all parties can navigate the intersection safely. Options that suggest merely slowing down or stopping only if other vehicles are present do not comply with traffic rules designed to prevent collisions. Ignoring the stop sign completely poses significant dangers, as it undermines the structured flow of traffic that stop signs aim to regulate, potentially causing confusion and accidents. Therefore, stopping completely and yielding enhances overall road safety and is the correct approach when encountering a stop sign.