Tennessee Permit Practice Test

What is the safest way to enter an intersection when you are unsure if it is clear?

1. Proceed quickly without stopping

2. Stop and wait for a signal

3. Proceed with caution and look for vehicles before entering

4. Turn around and avoid the intersection

The correct answer is: Proceed with caution and look for vehicles before entering

Entering an intersection when uncertain if it's clear requires a careful approach to ensure safety. Proceeding with caution and looking for vehicles before entering is the safest strategy. This method allows a driver to assess the situation thoroughly and be aware of any oncoming traffic or potential hazards. By slowing down and visually scanning the intersection, a driver can make an informed decision about whether it is safe to enter. This approach emphasizes responsibility and awareness, as drivers need to be vigilant about other vehicles, pedestrians, and signals. It also helps prevent accidents that could occur from assuming the intersection is clear without a proper check. Other choices, such as proceeding quickly without stopping, can lead to dangerous situations, especially if an unexpected vehicle enters the intersection concurrently. Stopping and waiting for a signal can be appropriate, but if there's no signal present or if the signal isn’t clear, it might not be a viable solution. Turning around to avoid the intersection might be overly cautious and impractical unless the intersection is indeed hazardous. Thus, the emphasis on caution and visual assessment is crucial for ensuring safety at intersections.