When approaching a traffic signal displaying a flashing yellow arrow, drivers:
Answers
Should merge into a lane in the direction of the arrow.
Should come to a complete stop.
May turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
Have the right-of-way and may expect oncoming traffic to stop for them.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: May turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
Explanation:
A flashing yellow arrow at a traffic signal indicates that left turns are allowed, but drivers must proceed with caution. Unlike a solid green arrow (which grants a protected turn), a flashing yellow arrow means the left turn is not protected, and the driver must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before proceeding with the turn.
Here’s a breakdown of the different components of the flashing yellow arrow:
- May turn left: A flashing yellow arrow signals that the driver is allowed to make a left turn, but only under certain conditions. This differs from a solid yellow arrow, which usually means that the left-turn signal is about to turn red and the driver should prepare to stop.
- Yield to oncoming traffic: Since the flashing yellow arrow does not provide a protected left turn, drivers must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic that is going straight or turning right. This ensures that the left turn does not interfere with vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.
- Yield to pedestrians: Pedestrians may be crossing the intersection, and drivers must be aware of any pedestrians in the crosswalk. Yielding to pedestrians is required to ensure safety for all road users.
- Not a protected turn: The flashing yellow arrow signals that the intersection is not fully controlled for a left turn, meaning drivers do not have the right-of-way. They must wait for a safe gap in traffic or pedestrian movement before turning.
This type of signal is commonly used to improve traffic flow while still ensuring safety by allowing drivers to make left turns when conditions are clear, without requiring a full stop unless necessary. The key is the need for caution and yielding.