If you want to turn left at an intersection controlled by this signal, you should:
Turn, as long as you yield to others drivers.
Come to a full stop and proceed when it is safe.
Come to a full stop and remain stopped while the red arrow is activated.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Come to a full stop and remain stopped while the red arrow is activated.
When you encounter a red arrow at an intersection, it means that you must stop and cannot proceed in the direction of the arrow until the signal changes. A red arrow indicates that turning in the direction of the arrow is prohibited, even if it is safe to do so. This applies regardless of the presence of other vehicles or pedestrians at the intersection.
Here’s why:
- Red Arrow Signals: A red arrow is specifically designed to control turns at intersections, signaling drivers that turning in the direction of the arrow is not allowed until the signal turns green or the red arrow stops showing. The red arrow functions like a red traffic light but applies only to turns in the direction the arrow is pointing.
- Full Stop Required: Drivers are required to come to a complete stop when the red arrow is displayed. This rule is in place to prevent conflicts with other traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists, ensuring that vehicles do not turn when it could be unsafe.
- No Proceeding While Red Arrow is Active: While a green light allows vehicles to proceed or turn, a red arrow prohibits any movement in the direction it indicates. Even if there are no other vehicles around, drivers should remain stopped until the red arrow is no longer illuminated.
- Yielding to Others: The idea of yielding to others, like in some traffic scenarios, doesn’t apply here because the red arrow explicitly forbids movement. No matter the traffic situation, a red arrow means stop, wait, and only proceed when the signal changes to allow it.
In summary, the proper action when facing a red arrow left turn signal is to come to a full stop and remain stopped until the signal changes, ensuring safety and compliance with traffic laws.