California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Rules of the Road and Right-of-WayEasy

You are approaching an intersection with a flashing red traffic light. What does this light mean?

  1. ASlow down and be prepared to stop.
  2. BYield to traffic from the right only.
  3. CProceed with caution without stopping.
  4. DStop completely, then proceed when safe.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. Stop completely, then proceed when safe.

A flashing red light is treated exactly like a stop sign. You must come to a complete stop, and then proceed only when it is safe and clear to do so, yielding to other traffic or pedestrians.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. This describes a flashing yellow light, not a flashing red light.
  • B. While yielding is part of the process, the primary requirement is a complete stop, and yielding applies to all traffic and pedestrians, not just from the right.
  • C. This describes a flashing yellow light, not a flashing red light.

Flashing Red Light

A flashing red traffic light means you must stop completely before the intersection, then proceed only when it is safe and clear of other traffic and pedestrians.

  • Treat it like a stop sign.
  • Come to a full and complete stop.
  • Yield to all cross traffic and pedestrians.
  • Proceed only when safe.

Memory trick: Red means Stop, Yellow means Prep, Green means Go, Flashing Red: Stop, then Flow.

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