What must a driver do at a stop sign?

At a stop sign, the law requires a driver to come to a complete stop before proceeding. This action is essential for ensuring safety because it allows the driver to assess the intersection for any oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or other potential hazards. After coming to a complete stop, the driver must yield the right of way to any traffic or pedestrians who are in or approaching the intersection. This means giving priority to others as appropriate before entering the intersection themselves.

In contrast, simply slowing down and proceeding if the way is clear does not fulfill the legal requirement and could lead to dangerous conditions. Stopping only if other vehicles are present ignores the potential for pedestrians or other hazards that might not be immediately visible. Finally, while stopping and looking in all directions is a prudent practice, it does not replace the necessity of actually stopping completely and yielding to any traffic or pedestrians present at the intersection.