What should a driver do if they encounter a traffic signal that is malfunctioning?

If a driver encounters a malfunctioning traffic signal, treating it as a four-way stop is the appropriate action to take. In this situation, all vehicles approaching the intersection must come to a complete stop and yield to any traffic that arrives before them. This method helps ensure safety for all road users since clear right-of-way rules are established at a four-way stop, reducing the risk of accidents that could occur from confusion or misjudgment about the signal's status.

Recognizing that traffic signals are designed to control the flow of traffic clearly and effectively, their malfunction can create uncertainty. By adopting the four-way stop approach, drivers mitigate risks associated with the unpredictable behavior of other road users who may not know how to react to the situation. Furthermore, it allows for a systematic flow of traffic until the signal is repaired and fully functional again.