Approaching an intersection at the posted speed limit when the signal turns yellow. What action should you take?

Approaching an intersection at the posted speed limit when the signal turns yellow. What action should you take?

• A. Accelerate to cross before the signal changes.
• B. Stop safely if you can do so; otherwise proceed through cautiously.
• C. Ignore the yellow and continue.
• D. Turn away from the intersection and stop in the crosswalk.

Answer: (B)

A yellow signal is a warning to slow down and prepare to stop because red is coming. The best action is to stop safely if you can do so without risking a collision. If stopping would be unsafe—for example, you’re too close to the intersection to brake in time—you may proceed through the intersection cautiously to clear it. Rushing to beat the red isn’t appropriate, and ignoring the yellow isn’t safe or legal. Also, stopping in the crosswalk is not allowed—you should stop before the intersection, not in the crosswalk.

A yellow signal is a warning to slow down and prepare to stop because red is coming. The best action is to stop safely if you can do so without risking a collision. If stopping would be unsafe—for example, you’re too close to the intersection to brake in time—you may proceed through the intersection cautiously to clear it.

Rushing to beat the red isn’t appropriate, and ignoring the yellow isn’t safe or legal. Also, stopping in the crosswalk is not allowed—you should stop before the intersection, not in the crosswalk.