Why is scanning for pedestrians at intersections critical even when you have the right of way?

• A. It is not necessary if you have the right of way
• B. Pedestrians always yield to vehicles
• C. Scanning is unnecessary in daylight
• D. Pedestrians may violate signals or appear suddenly; scanning helps prevent crashes.

Answer: (D)

Scanning for pedestrians at intersections is essential because you must anticipate people who might step into your path despite signals or your right of way. Pedestrians can violate rules, become distracted, or appear suddenly from behind parked cars or at corners. By actively scanning, you spot them early and have time to slow, stop, or steer to avoid a crash. This proactive habit reflects defensive driving: plan for others’ mistakes rather than assuming they will behave perfectly. The idea that it’s unnecessary with right of way or in daylight is misleading, since risk exists in all conditions and right of way only indicates who should yield, not who will be safe.