Final answer:
To ensure safety at an obstructed intersection, one should reduce speed, listen for traffic, inch forward slowly, and be mindful of pedestrian safety. A traffic signal can enhance pedestrian safety by dictating crossing times. Yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic with the right of way before proceeding.
Step-by-step explanation:
When approaching an intersection where your view of the cross street is blocked, one should take several precautions to ensure safety and proceed cautiously. These precautions include reducing speed significantly, rolling down your windows to listen for approaching traffic or emergency vehicles, edging forward slowly until you can see all lanes of the cross street clearly, and being especially mindful of pedestrian safety. If possible, making eye contact with pedestrians and other drivers can help in gauging their intentions and makes your own actions more predictable to them.
Regarding pedestrian safety, intersections near campuses often have high foot traffic. A traffic signal significantly enhances pedestrian safety by allowing them to cross at designated times, reducing the need to dodge traffic. Strategically positioned mirrors on obstructed corners can also help drivers and pedestrians gain a better view of the otherwise hidden cross traffic.
In every case, the primary rule is to yield to any pedestrians and oncoming traffic that has the right of way and to only proceed when it is completely safe to do so. Utilizing these safety measures helps prevent accidents and creates a safer environment for both drivers and pedestrians.