True or False: It is safe to drive close to pedestrians as long as you are cautious.

Driving close to pedestrians is not safe, regardless of how cautious a driver may be. Pedestrians are vulnerable road users who may not always be aware of their surroundings and can behave unpredictably. Maintaining a safe distance from pedestrians allows drivers more time to react to any sudden movements or actions from individuals on foot.

Pedestrians could be crossing streets, standing at the curb, or emerging from between parked cars. If a vehicle is too close, even when traveling at low speeds, it poses a significant risk of injury to pedestrians. Furthermore, laws in many areas require drivers to yield to pedestrians and maintain a certain distance, reinforcing the importance of keeping space and exercising heightened awareness in environments where pedestrians are present.

In contrast, driving close to pedestrians in light traffic or designated areas could still be dangerous if vehicles do not respect safe distances. Ensuring the safety of all road users, especially the most vulnerable, is paramount, making it essential to maintain a safe distance at all times. Thus, the assertion that it is safe to drive close to pedestrians as long as the driver is cautious is incorrect, emphasizing the need for more stringent precautions.