If a pedestrian is walking in a crosswalk, what should a driver do?

Yielding to pedestrians in a crosswalk is a fundamental rule of traffic safety and is required by law in Massachusetts, as well as in many other jurisdictions. When a pedestrian is in a crosswalk, they have the right of way, which means drivers must be prepared to stop and give them a chance to cross safely. This is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users.

By yielding, drivers demonstrate responsible behavior and contribute to a safer environment. It also helps to foster a culture of mutual respect between drivers and pedestrians. The other options, such as ignoring the pedestrian, honking the horn, or speeding up to pass them, could endanger the pedestrian and violate traffic laws. Such actions can lead to serious consequences, including accidents, injuries, and legal penalties.