When approaching a traffic signal that is yellow, what action should be taken?

• A. Speed up to clear the intersection
• B. Prepare to stop safely
• C. Continue without stopping
• D. Signal and change lanes

Answer: (B)

When approaching a traffic signal that is yellow, the appropriate action is to prepare to stop safely. A yellow traffic light indicates that the signal is about to change to red, which means that the right-of-way is about to end for your direction of travel.

By preparing to stop, you demonstrate compliance with traffic rules aimed at ensuring safety at intersections. This gives other drivers the opportunity to notice that the light is changing, reducing the likelihood of accidents that could occur if drivers continue through the intersection without caution.

It’s important to gauge your distance from the intersection and the behavior of the vehicles around you; if you are too close to the intersection when the light turns yellow, you may need to proceed cautiously rather than attempting to stop abruptly, which could create a hazard. However, in general practice, the yellow light serves as a warning, signaling that you should reduce speed and be ready to stop safely before reaching the intersection.