What should you do when driving up to an intersection with a pedestrian in the crosswalk?

When approaching an intersection with a pedestrian in the crosswalk, it is essential to stop and yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian. This action prioritizes the safety of individuals crossing the street, as pedestrians have the legal right to cross at marked crosswalks. By yielding, you are helping to ensure that the pedestrian can cross safely without feeling rushed or endangered.

Yielding in this scenario reflects responsible driving behavior and compliance with traffic laws designed to protect pedestrians. It also fosters a safer environment for everyone on the road, as it reduces the risk of accidents and promotes mutual respect between drivers and pedestrians.

While slowing down and driving with increased caution is important in a general sense when approaching any intersection, it does not fully address the obligation to stop for the pedestrian. Increasing speed and taking the right-of-way would put the pedestrian at risk and is contrary to traffic regulations. Using the vehicle's horn may be intended to alert the pedestrian, but it does not replace the need to yield the right-of-way, and excessive use of the horn can create confusion or alarm without improving safety. Thus, the correct and safest action is to stop and yield to the pedestrian in the crosswalk.