Which of the following is a safe driving practice when approaching intersections?

Selecting to look both ways before proceeding at an intersection is essential for safe driving. This practice helps ensure that drivers are aware of any oncoming vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians who may not be visible immediately. By actively checking both directions, a driver can make informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of accidents or collisions. This proactive behavior is particularly important because intersections are common areas for potential conflicts between road users.

While the other practices mentioned may seem to have a functional purpose in theory, they are not safe and fail to prioritize caution and awareness. For instance, speeding up to clear an intersection creates unnecessary risks by increasing the chance of losing control or misjudging the timing of other road users. Making a turn without signaling is also dangerous, as it fails to communicate intentions to other drivers, which can lead to confusion and accidents. Crossing quickly to avoid oncoming traffic disregards the need for careful observation and could lead to miscalculating the speed of approaching vehicles, resulting in a hazardous situation.

In summary, looking both ways is a crucial habit that enhances overall safety when navigating intersections, making it the correct choice in this scenario.