What must a driver do when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, the driver must stop completely at the designated stop line or crosswalk before proceeding. This complete stop is crucial for ensuring safety, as it guarantees that the driver has the opportunity to observe oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and any other relevant conditions before moving through the intersection. By coming to a full halt, drivers can adequately assess whether it is safe to continue, which is vital in preventing accidents and promoting the flow of traffic.

While slowing down and yielding can be parts of safe driving practices in different scenarios, they do not substitute for the legal requirement to stop at a stop sign. Speeding up to clear the intersection poses a safety risk, as it can lead to collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians who may have the right of way. Additionally, the choice to make a right turn only limits the driver's options and does not represent the correct action required at a stop sign, where the expectation is to stop first and then proceed with caution as allowed by traffic conditions.