What mandatory action should a driver take when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, the mandatory action for a driver is to come to a complete stop and check for oncoming traffic. This action is crucial because it ensures that the driver is fully aware of their surroundings before proceeding. A complete stop allows the driver to assess whether any vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists are present, thus ensuring safety at an intersection.

Following this procedure is not only a legal requirement but also a fundamental practice in defensive driving. It helps prevent collisions and enhances overall road safety. After stopping, the driver can confidently assess the right of way and determine if it is safe to proceed.

Hollering to alert other drivers may cause confusion and does not address the need for the driver to evaluate the intersection conditions. Speeding up can lead to dangerous situations by disregarding the stop sign and may result in accidents. Yielding to vehicles on the left is not applicable in this context, as the stop sign dictates that all drivers must stop and assess traffic conditions.