When approaching a stop sign at an intersection, the law requires drivers to come to a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection. This action ensures that you yield the right-of-way to any other vehicles or pedestrians that may be present, thereby promoting safety for everyone involved.
By coming to a complete stop, you give yourself the opportunity to assess the situation thoroughly. You can check for pedestrians, other vehicles, and any traffic conditions that might impact your next move. It's essential for maintaining control over your actions and ensuring that you're making informed decisions before proceeding into the intersection.
Though it might seem practical to slow down and proceed if you think it's clear or to only stop if there's another vehicle, those practices carry a risk of missing critical safety cues, which could lead to accidents. The intention behind the stop sign is to foster caution and responsibility among drivers, making option B the correct procedure to follow.