What should you do if you encounter a pedestrian at a crosswalk?

When you encounter a pedestrian at a crosswalk, the appropriate action is to come to a complete stop and yield the right of way. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of the pedestrian, as they have the legal right to cross the street at designated crosswalks. By stopping, you allow them to cross safely and demonstrate respect for traffic laws designed to protect all road users. Yielding the right of way not only helps prevent accidents but also fosters a culture of safety and consideration between drivers and pedestrians.

In many jurisdictions, not yielding to pedestrians can result in significant legal consequences for drivers, including fines or points on their driving record. Therefore, it is both a legal requirement and an ethical practice to stop and allow pedestrians to cross at crosswalks.