As you near an intersection, the traffic light changes from green to yellow. Your best action is to:
Speed up to beat the red light.
Apply the brakes sharply to stop.
Be prepared to stop in the center of the intersection.
Be prepared to stop before the intersection.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Be prepared to stop before the intersection.
Explanation:
When approaching an intersection and the traffic light changes from green to yellow, the safest and most appropriate response is to prepare to stop before the intersection. Yellow lights are designed as a warning that the light will soon turn red. This indicates that drivers should either clear the intersection if it is safe to do so or prepare to stop, depending on their position and the traffic conditions.
Detailed Reasoning:
- Safety First: Speeding up to try to beat the red light is risky because it can lead to running the red light, which is dangerous and can result in severe accidents. A collision with a vehicle or pedestrian at an intersection can have serious consequences, including injuries or fatalities.
- Braking Sharply: Applying the brakes abruptly to stop can also be hazardous, particularly if traffic behind you is not prepared for a sudden stop. This can increase the risk of rear-end collisions, especially if there are cars following closely.
- Stopping in the Center of the Intersection: This is not a safe action because stopping in the middle of an intersection when the light turns red can block traffic and create a hazard for cross-traffic, potentially causing accidents.
- Preparing to Stop Before the Intersection: This is the most prudent action. It allows you to gradually decelerate and stop safely while maintaining control of your vehicle. It minimizes the risk of sudden maneuvers and reduces the potential for accidents.
Additional Considerations:
- Visibility: If you can see that the light is turning yellow in ample time and you are not too close to the intersection, slowing down and preparing to stop is ideal.
- Road Conditions: On slippery or wet roads, stopping may require more distance, so it is crucial to anticipate the yellow light and start braking earlier to ensure a safe stop.
Ultimately, being prepared to stop before the intersection ensures the safety of the driver, passengers, and other road users.