How much do you react to a flashing red traffic light? A. Prepare to stop only if the light changes to red. B. Slow down and look for traffic; there is no need to stop. C. Stop if you see another road user getting ready to cross. D. Treat it like a STOP sign and come to a complete stop.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Treat it like a STOP sign and come to a complete stop.
When approaching a flashing red traffic light, you should treat it as a STOP sign. This means you must come to a complete stop at the intersection, just as you would if there were a solid red light or a stop sign. After stopping, you are required to yield to other vehicles and pedestrians and only proceed when it is safe to do so.
Here’s why this is the case:
- Flashing Red Light = STOP: The flashing red light is designed to alert you that you must stop and check for cross-traffic or pedestrians. It is considered an indication that the usual rules of a red light are in place, and you cannot proceed without first ensuring it is safe.
- Safety First: Coming to a complete stop allows you to assess the situation, giving you the opportunity to observe any traffic coming from other directions, as well as pedestrians who may be crossing the road. This ensures everyone’s safety.
- Yielding: After stopping, you must yield to any vehicles or pedestrians that have the right of way. Only after making sure it is safe to go should you proceed.
- Not Just for Red Lights: It is also important to note that flashing red lights are typically used at intersections where traffic control devices like stop signs or traffic lights may not be fully functional. This is why it is essential to exercise caution and stop, even though a flashing light might be temporary or could indicate that the signal is malfunctioning.
Therefore, always treat a flashing red light as a STOP sign, come to a complete stop, and only proceed when it is safe.
