What is the proper action to take when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, the proper action is to come to a complete stop and yield. This action is crucial because it ensures that you fully assess the intersection for any oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or other hazards before proceeding. Yielding allows you to give the right of way to other vehicles or individuals who may have already started to enter the intersection or who have the right to do so.

Stopping completely is a legal requirement at stop signs and helps maintain safety on the road. This practice reduces the likelihood of accidents by allowing drivers to make informed decisions. Additionally, it establishes a clear protocol for communication between drivers, indicating who has priority in a given situation.

The other options involve actions that do not comply with traffic laws and safety principles. Speeding up contradicts the purpose of the stop sign, while merely slowing down without coming to a full stop does not fulfill the legal requirement and can lead to dangerous situations. Honking your horn prior to stopping is not a recognized or necessary action in this context and could create confusion or anxiety among other drivers.