California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Rules of the Road and Right-of-WayEasy
You are driving on a two-lane road and approach an intersection where a police officer is directing traffic. The officer signals you to proceed straight, but the traffic light for your direction is red. What should you do?
- AFollow the directions of the police officer, regardless of the traffic signal.
- BHonk your horn to alert the officer to the red light.
- CStop at the red light and wait for it to turn green before proceeding.
- DMake a right turn, as it is generally permitted on a red light.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Follow the directions of the police officer, regardless of the traffic signal.
When a police officer or traffic controller is present, their instructions supersede any traffic signs or signals. You must always obey their directions to ensure safety and maintain traffic flow.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Honking is inappropriate and does not change the rule to follow the officer.
- C. Traffic signals are overridden by a police officer's directions.
- D. Making a turn against an officer's direct signal to proceed straight is incorrect.
Officer's Direction
Instructions from a police officer or traffic controller always take precedence over traffic signs and signals.
- Officer's commands override all other traffic controls.
- Disobeying an officer's command is illegal and unsafe.
Memory trick: Officer's word is law, above all signs and lights.