What is the correct procedure when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, the correct procedure is to come to a complete stop and look both ways. This practice ensures that you adhere to traffic regulations designed to maintain safety at intersections where visibility may be limited and where vehicles or pedestrians might be crossing. Stopping completely allows you to assess the intersection carefully, checking for any oncoming traffic or pedestrians before proceeding.

The requirement to look both ways is crucial because it helps drivers identify any potential hazards that may not be immediately visible, such as vehicles approaching from different directions or people crossing the road. This thorough approach minimizes the likelihood of accidents.

In contrast to this, simply slowing down and continuing if no cars are present undermines the purpose of the stop sign, potentially leading to dangerous situations if unexpected obstacles arise. Stopping only if the light is red does not apply at stop signs, and honking your horn is not a standard procedure for this situation; rather, it may startle other drivers or pedestrians without contributing to safety.