ICBC British Columbia Written Exam Practice Test 2025

What should drivers do when approaching a pedestrian crossing?

1. Accelerate to clear the crossing

2. Slow down and be prepared to stop for pedestrians

3. Expect pedestrians to yield to vehicles

4. Ignore any pedestrians if there are no traffic lights

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

When approaching a pedestrian crossing, drivers should slow down and be prepared to stop for pedestrians. This practice is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals who may be in the process of crossing the street. Pedestrian crossings are designated areas to help protect pedestrians, and drivers bear the responsibility to yield to them. By reducing speed, drivers not only increase their ability to react to any unexpected situations, such as pedestrians stepping onto the crossing, but they also create a safer environment for all road users. It's important to be aware that pedestrians can appear suddenly and may not always wait for a clear signal to cross, which is why heightened awareness and preparedness to stop are essential. The other choices do not promote the necessary consideration for pedestrian safety. For instance, accelerating to clear the crossing disregards the presence and rights of pedestrians and increases the risk of accidents. Expecting pedestrians to yield to vehicles places the onus incorrectly on them, ignoring the legal and moral responsibility of drivers to maintain a safe environment. Ignoring pedestrians altogether, regardless of traffic light presence, fails to account for the laws that prioritize pedestrian safety at designated crossings.