Do you need to stop and wait for pedestrians to cross when turning into an intersection?

When turning into an intersection, it's mandatory to stop and wait for pedestrians to cross whenever they are present. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of pedestrians, making it clear that their right of way must be respected at all times. Drivers should always be vigilant and prepared to stop for pedestrians who may be crossing the street, especially since crosswalks are designated areas for pedestrian movement.

This practice is part of defensive driving, which emphasizes the importance of being aware of and yielding to vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians. While some drivers might think it is acceptable to proceed if they don’t see anyone crossing, rules dictate that caution is required in these situations. Not following this rule can lead to accidents and potential legal consequences for the driver.

In contrast, the other options suggest circumstances where stopping is either optional or dependent on the presence of traffic signals or pedestrians. However, the core principle remains that safety precautions around pedestrians must always come first to minimize risks on the road.