What is the safest way to navigate a four-way stop?

The safest way to navigate a four-way stop is to yield to the first vehicle that arrives and be prepared to stop. This approach reinforces the principle of right-of-way, which is crucial in preventing collisions at intersections. When vehicles arrive at an intersection simultaneously, the driver on the right has the right-of-way. By yielding to the first vehicle, drivers help maintain order and ensure safety, as it facilitates a clear understanding among all drivers about who should go first.

Choosing this option promotes cautiousness and attention to the traffic around you, encouraging proper yielding behavior. It helps drivers avoid confusion and potential accidents that can occur if everyone proceeds without regard to who arrived first.

In contrast, always going first if on the right ignores the possibility that another vehicle may have arrived before you, while blowing your horn can be misinterpreted and does not necessarily clarify your intent. Proceeding with caution at a slow speed is important, but without adhering to the rules of right-of-way, it may still lead to dangerous situations. Overall, recognizing and yielding to the first vehicle at a four-way stop is the most effective way to navigate these intersections safely.