What should you do if you approach a yellow traffic light?

When you approach a yellow traffic light, the appropriate action is to prepare to stop unless it would be unsafe to do so. The yellow light serves as a warning that the light is about to change to red, signaling that drivers should slow down and prepare to stop at the intersection.

This action reflects safe driving practices, as it allows for the possibility of stopping safely if conditions permit. It is important to assess the situation quickly; if you are already too close to the intersection when the light turns yellow, you may need to proceed through it cautiously rather than risk a sudden stop that could cause an accident. Remaining mindful of the surrounding traffic and conditions will help you make the safest choice.

Choosing to speed up to pass before the light turns red could lead to risky driving behavior and may result in running a red light, which is against traffic laws. Ignoring the signal entirely is unsafe and illegal, as it disregards the traffic control measures designed to ensure safety. Lastly, signaling the vehicles behind you to stop may not only be inappropriate but could also create confusion and potentially lead to an accident if other drivers do not react appropriately. Preparing to stop when the light turns yellow helps maintain safety for all road users.