You come to an intersection with a flashing red light. You must:
Slow down and drive carefully through the intersection.
Turn either right or left, since the road is blocked ahead.
Stop at the intersection and wait for a flashing green light.
Stop at the intersection, then proceed as traffic allows.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Stop at the intersection, then proceed as traffic allows.
Explanation:
A flashing red light at an intersection functions similarly to a stop sign. It indicates that drivers must come to a complete stop before proceeding. The rule is based on the principle of yielding the right of way to other vehicles or pedestrians that may have priority at the intersection.
Here’s a breakdown of what you should do when encountering a flashing red light:
- Stop: You must stop your vehicle at the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection (whichever comes first). Even if no other vehicles or pedestrians are visible, stopping is mandatory. This rule ensures that drivers remain alert and considerate of other road users.
- Yield: After stopping, you must yield the right of way to any vehicles or pedestrians that are already in the intersection or approaching it with the intention to cross. This includes vehicles from other directions that may be proceeding through the intersection on green lights or with the right of way.
- Proceed when safe: Once you’ve stopped and it’s safe to do so, you may proceed through the intersection. This is done in the same manner as if you were at a stop sign, where you can only proceed once you’ve made sure it’s clear and no one else has the right of way.
Why not the other answers?
- “Slow down and drive carefully through the intersection”: This is incorrect because you are required to come to a complete stop at a flashing red light, not simply slow down.
- “Turn either right or left, since the road is blocked ahead”: This answer is irrelevant to the flashing red light rule. The flashing red light requires a stop and does not suggest turning due to road blockage.
- “Stop at the intersection and wait for a flashing green light”: This is incorrect. There is no need to wait for a flashing green light; you only need to stop and proceed when it’s safe, regardless of other traffic signals.
In conclusion, the correct and safe action when you encounter a flashing red light is to stop, yield to other traffic or pedestrians, and then proceed when it’s safe to do so.