If a traffic light is out-of-order, drivers should:
Answers
Treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
Treat the intersection as a roundabout.
Drive without stopping but proceed with caution.
Assume they have the right-of-way.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: Treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
Explanation:
When a traffic light is out of order, drivers must treat the intersection as if it is controlled by stop signs at all corners, similar to a four-way stop. This rule is vital for ensuring safety and maintaining an organized flow of traffic when there is no functioning signal to direct vehicles.
At a four-way stop, the basic rule is that drivers must yield to vehicles that arrived before them. If two vehicles reach the intersection simultaneously, the vehicle on the right has the right-of-way. This process helps prevent confusion and accidents, as all drivers are aware of the rules.
Why not other options?
- Treat the intersection as a roundabout: This is incorrect. Roundabouts have specific design features (such as circular roadways) and rules for entry and right-of-way. If a traffic light is out of order, it does not change the intersection into a roundabout, which typically has a different set of traffic rules.
- Drive without stopping but proceed with caution: This is also incorrect. It is important to stop at the intersection when the traffic light is out of order to assess the situation and avoid accidents. Simply driving through without stopping would increase the risk of collisions, as there may be vehicles coming from other directions or pedestrians crossing.
- Assume they have the right-of-way: Assuming the right-of-way without stopping is dangerous. In situations where a traffic light is out, all vehicles must stop and evaluate the traffic conditions before proceeding. Assuming you have the right-of-way could lead to a collision, especially if another vehicle assumes the same.
In summary, when a traffic light fails, treating the intersection as a four-way stop ensures that all drivers are following the same rules, which promotes safety and order.