What must you do when you approach a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, it is essential to come to a complete stop at the marked stop line. This action ensures that you have fully halted your vehicle, allowing you to assess and safely determine if the intersection is clear of other vehicles, pedestrians, or any obstacles before proceeding. It is a critical safety measure designed to prevent accidents and ensure that all drivers have the opportunity to observe their surroundings.

While slowing down and proceeding with caution may seem reasonable, it does not fulfill the legal requirement of stopping. Similarly, speeding up to clear the intersection overlooks safety and can lead to dangerous situations. Yielding to oncoming traffic might apply in some contexts (like at a yield sign), but at a stop sign, the priority is to stop completely and assess all directions. Thus, coming to a complete stop at the marked stop line is the correct and legally mandated action at a stop sign.