At intersections and railroad crossings, what should you always do?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of awareness in high-risk areas such as intersections and railroad crossings. Looking to the sides of your vehicle is crucial because it allows you to be aware of oncoming traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, and other potential hazards that might not be directly in front of you. This heightened awareness enables you to make safer decisions and react more quickly to any unexpected situations.

In contrast, while stopping, listening, and proceeding cautiously might seem sensible, simply relying on auditory cues can lead to missed visual cues. Additionally, slowly passing vehicles that appear to be stopped can lead to hazardous situations, as those vehicles may be stopped for legitimate reasons, such as awaiting a red light or pedestrians. Signaling before making a turn is a critical practice but does not specifically address the unique risks present at intersections and railroad crossings. Therefore, being vigilant and aware of your surroundings through side-checks is essential for safety in these scenarios.