Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Practice Test

What should you do if you see road signs indicating a school zone?

1. Do not pay attention and drive normally

2. Increase your speed to clear the area quickly

3. Reduce your speed and be prepared to stop

4. Only slow down if children are present

The correct answer is: Reduce your speed and be prepared to stop

When you encounter road signs indicating a school zone, it is crucial to reduce your speed and be prepared to stop. School zones typically have a reduced speed limit to ensure the safety of children who may be crossing the street, waiting at the bus stop, or otherwise nearby. These signs serve as a warning to remind drivers that they must exercise extra caution in these areas. Slowing down not only aligns with legal requirements but also allows drivers a better chance to react to unexpected behaviors from children. In these zones, children can appear suddenly, and reducing your speed increases the likelihood of preventing accidents. The other options suggest actions that could increase the risk of accidents or even violations of traffic laws. Not paying attention and driving normally, or increasing speed to clear the area, poses significant dangers, especially since the whole purpose of school zone signage is to safeguard young pedestrians. Moreover, only slowing down if children are present disregards the fact that children can be nearby even if they are not immediately visible. Thus, the most prudent and responsible action is to reduce speed and remain vigilant in school zones.