Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestTraffic Signs and SignalsHard
A driver is approaching an intersection where the traffic signal is completely out (no lights are working). There are no police officers directing traffic. What action should the driver take?
- ATreat the intersection as a four-way stop, yielding to vehicles already in the intersection or approaching from the right.
- BStop only if there is cross-traffic; otherwise, proceed as normal.
- CYield to traffic on the main road and only proceed when there is a safe gap.
- DProceed through the intersection without stopping, but with extreme caution.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Treat the intersection as a four-way stop, yielding to vehicles already in the intersection or approaching from the right.
When a traffic signal is completely out, it is legally treated as a four-way stop. All drivers approaching the intersection must stop and then proceed when it is safe, following the right-of-way rules for a four-way stop.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This is incorrect; a complete stop is required regardless of immediate cross-traffic.
- C. This describes yielding at an uncontrolled intersection or a two-way stop, not a completely out traffic signal.
- D. Proceeding without stopping is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Non-Functioning Traffic Signal
When a traffic signal is completely dark or not working, the intersection must be treated as a four-way stop.
- All vehicles must come to a complete stop.
- The first vehicle to stop is the first to go.
- If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right-of-way.
- If a police officer is present, obey their directions instead of the 'four-way stop' rule.
Memory trick: Lights out, stop and think, treat it like a four-way blink!