How should a driver respond to a traffic signal indicating a yellow light?

When a traffic signal indicates a yellow light, it serves as a warning that the light is about to change to red. The appropriate response is to prepare to stop safely, if possible. This means drivers should assess their surroundings and determine whether it is safe to stop or whether they can clear the intersection without risking an accident. The yellow light is designed to give drivers a short window of time to make a decision, promoting safety and reducing the likelihood of running a red light.

The option to accelerate to clear the intersection can lead to dangerous situations, especially if other drivers are also reacting to the light change. Stopping immediately may not always be safe, particularly if a driver is too close to the intersection or if sudden braking could cause a collision with following vehicles. Maintaining speed to avoid stopping could also result in running a red light, which is a traffic violation and poses significant risks to all road users. Therefore, the most responsible response to a yellow light is to be prepared to stop safely.