35.72. In which case is the use of the audible warning signal while driving in a populated area appropriate:
UAУ якому випадку подання звукового сигналу під час руху в населеному пункті є доречним:
This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine concerns road safety within populated areas and the proper use of warning signals. In the city, the horn is not a “regular” means of interaction between drivers: it creates unnecessary noise and can frighten pedestrians, so the traffic rules restrict its use while driving.
The question tests knowledge of Section 9 “Warning Signals,” specifically the requirements of point 9.5: in populated areas, the use of the horn is prohibited except in situations where it is impossible to prevent a traffic accident without it. That is why the horn is appropriate in cases of sudden danger, for example, when a child is nearby and there is a risk of them stepping onto the roadway—a short signal can attract attention and help prevent a collision.
The other options do not follow this logic. The intention to start overtaking is not a reason to “warn” with a horn within the city, as this does not prove the inevitability of an accident and often becomes a way to pressure other road users. Similarly, braking by the car in front is a normal road situation: the driver should keep a safe distance and be ready to slow down without using the horn. For the theoretical exam, it is important to remember a simple rule: in a populated area, the horn is allowed only as an urgent way to prevent an accident, not “for convenience” or communication.
Clause 9.5 (Section 9 "Warning Signals")
Sounding the horn in populated areas is prohibited, except in cases where it is impossible to prevent a traffic accident without it.
Explanation of application: if the driver sees a real likelihood of an immediate accident (for example, a child is about to run onto the roadway and may not be aware of the danger), the use of the horn in a populated area is permissible as a means of preventing an accident.
Clause 1.10 (term "Populated Area")
Populated area — a built-up territory, the entrances to and exits from which are marked by road signs 5.49, 5.50, 5.51, 5.52.
Clause 1.10 (term "Roadway")
Roadway — the part of the road intended for the movement of non-rail vehicles.
That is, the correct answer is "You see a child about to run onto the roadway," given that according to the Traffic Rules, in a populated area the use of the horn is prohibited except in cases where it is necessary to prevent a traffic accident.
In a populated area, the horn is not a “normal” means of communication between drivers. The rules are based on the fact that in the city it creates unnecessary noise and can frighten pedestrians, so its use while driving is generally prohibited.
At the same time, clause 9.5 of the Traffic Rules makes an exception: sounding the horn is allowed only when there is a real need to immediately warn of danger and prevent a traffic accident. That is, the signal should not be “for convenience” or “for discipline,” but specifically as an urgent warning.
A situation where you see a child about to run out onto the roadway is exactly an example of an immediate threat of a traffic accident. Children often act unpredictably, may not assess the speed of a car, and may not notice the danger. At such a moment, a short horn signal can attract the child's attention and stop them, thus helping to prevent a collision.
Therefore, the correct answer is “You see a child about to run out onto the roadway,” because in a populated area the horn is allowed only to prevent a traffic accident, and such a situation creates an immediate danger.