Massachusetts Fines and Limits Permit Practice Test

When driving, how can you best prepare for unexpected pedestrians?

1. Keep your speed constant

2. Stay alert and watch for movements

3. Only check when at intersections

4. Assume pedestrians will yield to vehicles

The correct answer is: Stay alert and watch for movements

Staying alert and watching for movements is essential when driving, as it enables you to anticipate the actions of pedestrians. Pedestrians can appear unexpectedly, often crossing streets, entering crosswalks, or suddenly entering the roadway from behind parked cars. By being attentive to movements, you can better react to any unexpected situations, giving you the time to stop or slow down as needed to ensure the safety of both yourself and the pedestrians. Maintaining constant speed, checking only at intersections, or assuming that pedestrians will yield to vehicles do not provide the proactive awareness required to safely navigate areas where pedestrians may be present. These approaches could lead to dangerous situations, as they rely on assumptions rather than actively engaging with the environment around you. Thus, watching for movements while driving is a critical component of safe driving practices, particularly in areas where pedestrians are likely to be encountered.