What is the safest way to approach a stop sign?

The safest way to approach a stop sign is to slow down and look for pedestrians and other vehicles. This method emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and aware of your surroundings. When approaching a stop sign, it's critical to decrease your speed, allowing you to better assess the situation. By looking out for pedestrians, you ensure their safety, especially in residential areas where they may be present. Additionally, checking for other vehicles helps you understand when it's safe to proceed.

While coming to a complete stop at all times is a fundamental rule at a stop sign, the correct answer focuses on the approach, which combines slowing down with awareness of the surroundings. This proactive measure is key to preventing accidents and ensuring everyone on the road is safe. The other options do not encompass this balanced approach of caution and awareness, potentially leading to dangerous situations.