What should be done when you see a yellow traffic signal?

A yellow traffic signal serves as a warning that the light is about to change to red. When you see a yellow light, the safest course of action is to prepare to stop if it is safe to do so. This means assessing your speed and the distance from the intersection. If you are able to stop safely without skidding or colliding with other vehicles, this is the recommended action.

This understanding is rooted in the function of traffic signals, where yellow indicates that the timing for vehicles to proceed is closing and that they should prepare to yield. It's essential for maintaining traffic flow and safety at intersections. When drivers adhere to this principle, they help reduce the risk of accidents that can occur when someone misjudges their ability to cross the intersection before the light turns red.

Other options may suggest actions that could lead to danger. For example, speeding up to clear the intersection increases the risk of a collision if other drivers are also reacting to the signal change. Ignoring a yellow signal while already in the intersection could lead to complications, especially if cross traffic begins moving. Turning left only if safe does not directly address the critical action needed when the signal changes to yellow, as the primary focus should be on stopping to ensure overall safety and compliance with traffic