How should drivers approach an intersection?

Drivers should approach an intersection with caution, which entails checking for potential hazards and slowing down. This approach allows drivers to assess the situation at the intersection, including the presence of other vehicles, pedestrians, and traffic signals. By slowing down, drivers give themselves the opportunity to react appropriately to any unexpected situations that may arise, such as a pedestrian entering the crosswalk or another vehicle running a red light.

Additionally, by checking for hazards, drivers can better ensure their own safety and that of others. This thorough assessment is essential because intersections are common points where accidents occur. In contrast, simply slowing down without scanning for hazards or increasing speed—both of which could potentially lead to dangerous situations—does not promote safe practices while navigating through intersections. Merging into another lane may be appropriate in some contexts, but it does not necessarily apply to approaching an intersection where obstacle awareness is paramount.