What does a yield sign mean?

A yield sign indicates that a driver must slow down and give the right of way to any vehicles or pedestrians in the intersection or approaching it. When a yield sign is present, it is the responsibility of the driver to assess the traffic conditions and ensure it is safe to proceed without interfering with other road users who have the right of way. This rule helps maintain safety and orderly flow at intersections, especially when the yield sign is placed where merging or crossing traffic may occur.

The other options suggest actions that could lead to dangerous driving behavior. For example, stopping immediately could cause confusion or even accidents if drivers behind you are not expecting such a sudden halt. Accelerating to get through the intersection could put you at risk of a collision if another vehicle has the right of way. Only looking for pedestrians overlooks the necessity to also yield to other vehicles that may be present at the intersection. Understanding the purpose of a yield sign is crucial for safe driving practices.