What should a driver do when they see a stop sign?

When a driver encounters a stop sign, the correct action is to come to a complete stop and yield to any traffic that may be present. This means that the driver must fully halt their vehicle, ensuring that they are obeying the traffic control device and assessing the intersection for other vehicles or pedestrians before proceeding. This rule is crucial for maintaining safety on the road, as it allows drivers to observe the right-of-way conditions and avoid potential collisions.

Yielding to traffic after stopping is equally important, especially at intersections where other vehicles may have the right of way. This practice promotes an orderly flow of traffic and helps prevent accidents.

The other options do not adequately address the requirement to stop at a stop sign. Proceeding with caution or slowing down is insufficient, as these actions may lead to dangerous situations if the driver does not come to a complete stop and actively assess the surroundings. Ignoring the sign is also illegal and can result in severe consequences, such as traffic violations or accidents. Thus, coming to a complete stop and yielding to traffic is the established protocol that ensures safety for all road users.