New York DMV Permit Written TestRules of the Road and Traffic LawsEasy
You are approaching an intersection with a flashing red traffic light. What action must you take?
- AStop completely, then proceed when safe, yielding to pedestrians and other traffic.
- BSlow down and be prepared to stop if necessary.
- CTreat it as a yield sign, slowing down and only stopping if traffic is present.
- DProceed with caution, yielding to crossing traffic.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Stop completely, then proceed when safe, yielding to pedestrians and other traffic.
A flashing red light is equivalent to a stop sign. You must come to a complete stop before the intersection and yield the right-of-way to all other vehicles and pedestrians before proceeding.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This is insufficient; a complete stop is required.
- C. A flashing red light requires a complete stop, not just slowing down and yielding like a yield sign.
- D. This describes the action for 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, just as you would for a stop sign.
- Treat it like a stop sign.
- Come to a complete stop.
- Yield to all traffic and pedestrians before proceeding.
Memory trick: Red means stop, yellow means slow, green means go, but flashing lights add a twist, you know!