Illinois CDL Practice Exam

What action should you take when approaching an intersection?

1. Speed up to clear the intersection

2. Slow down and be prepared to stop

3. Change lanes before the intersection

4. Ignore traffic signals

The correct answer is: Slow down and be prepared to stop

When approaching an intersection, slowing down and being prepared to stop is essential for safe driving. Intersections can be particularly hazardous due to the presence of other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential obstacles. By reducing your speed, you increase your ability to react appropriately to changing circumstances, such as a traffic signal changing, a stop sign, or other vehicles entering the intersection. This approach allows you to assess the situation more clearly, making it easier to make informed decisions about whether to continue through the intersection, stop, or yield to other traffic. Additionally, being prepared to stop ensures that you can respond to unexpected events, such as a pedestrian crossing the street or a vehicle suddenly stopping in front of you. Maintaining a cautious speed also helps in ensuring that you have the needed time to interpret traffic signals accurately and make necessary adjustments. Safe driving practices dictate that intersections require heightened attention and a defensive driving mindset, making slow and prepared actions the most responsible course of action.