What action should you take if you encounter a pedestrian crossing the road?

When encountering a pedestrian crossing the road, stopping and allowing them to cross safely is the appropriate and responsible action to take. This action ensures the safety of the pedestrian, as they have the right of way in marked crosswalks and often in unmarked intersections as well.

Allowing pedestrians to cross promotes a safer road environment and encourages compliance with traffic laws designed to protect vulnerable road users. In doing so, drivers are also modeling good citizenship and responsibility, contributing to overall road safety.

Other options may not prioritize pedestrian safety effectively. Speeding up might endanger the pedestrian, honking could startle them and lead to confusion, and changing lanes quickly could create additional hazards on the road. It is crucial for drivers to remain vigilant and patient, ensuring they provide a safe crossing opportunity for pedestrians.