California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Traffic Signs and SignalsMedium
You approach an intersection with a flashing yellow light. What does this signal mean?
- AStop before entering the intersection if safe to do so.
- BProceed with caution, yielding to other vehicles and pedestrians.
- CThe traffic light is out of order; treat as an all-way stop.
- DYou have the right-of-way; proceed without slowing down.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Proceed with caution, yielding to other vehicles and pedestrians.
A flashing yellow light means you should slow down and proceed with caution. You must be prepared to stop if necessary and yield to any vehicles or pedestrians already in the intersection or approaching from other directions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Stopping is only required if a flashing red light is present or if necessary to avoid a collision, not for a flashing yellow.
- C. A flashing yellow light is a cautionary signal, not an indication of a broken light; a dark light indicates a malfunction.
- D. A flashing yellow light indicates caution and yielding, not an automatic right-of-way to proceed indiscriminately.
Flashing Yellow Light
A traffic signal that flashes yellow, indicating a need for caution.
- Slow down.
- Proceed with caution.
- Yield to other vehicles and pedestrians.
Memory trick: Yellow means yield, red means stop, always check before you hop.