When approaching a parking lot or side road on a highway, when should you stop?

When approaching a parking lot or side road on a highway, stopping at all times is essential for safety. This practice ensures that you are aware of any potential hazards and can make informed decisions based on the conditions you encounter.

By stopping, you allow yourself the opportunity to visually assess the traffic situation, check for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles that may be entering or exiting the roadway. It enables you to gauge the speed and distance of oncoming traffic before merging or entering a side road or parking lot, which significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

In situations where signs or road markings may not be present, relying solely on them would be insufficient; therefore, stopping consistently is a prudent practice regardless of traffic patterns or the presence of other vehicles. It's about ensuring your safety and that of other road users, making it the best course of action when approaching these areas.