What should you do if you see a pedestrian or child near the road?

When encountering a pedestrian or a child near the road, slowing down and being prepared to stop is the safest and most responsible action to take. This approach ensures that you are able to react appropriately to any sudden movements or actions that the pedestrian or child may make. Children, in particular, may behave unpredictably, and by reducing your speed, you increase your chances of averting an accident.

Being prepared to stop allows you to adjust your response based on the situation. For example, if a child suddenly steps onto the road, your reduced speed will provide you with additional time to stop safely. This consideration is paramount for ensuring the safety of those who are more vulnerable, such as pedestrians.

In contrast, accelerating to pass quickly or maintaining your speed can create dangerous situations, as these actions do not account for the unpredictability of pedestrians. Additionally, honking your horn may not effectively communicate your intentions or ensure safety, as it could startle the pedestrian rather than promote safe interactions on the road. Therefore, slowing down and being ready to stop is the most sensible and safety-focused choice in this scenario.