Tennessee Permit Practice Test

What does a flashing red traffic light indicate?

1. You must yield to oncoming traffic

2. You may proceed without stopping

3. You must stop and yield to traffic before proceeding

4. You should slow down and proceed with caution

The correct answer is: You must stop and yield to traffic before proceeding

A flashing red traffic light functions similarly to a stop sign. It indicates that drivers must come to a complete stop at the intersection or at the point where the light is visible. After stopping, the driver is required to yield to any traffic or pedestrians that may have the right of way before proceeding. This rule ensures that intersections remain safe, allowing drivers to assess their surroundings for oncoming vehicles or pedestrians before moving forward. The choice that suggests yielding to oncoming traffic could apply in certain contexts, but it does not capture the necessity of stopping first. Proceeding without stopping contradicts the fundamental requirement of a flashing red light. Suggesting to slow down and proceed with caution implies an incomplete stop, overlooking the critical aspect of coming to a full stop. Hence, understanding the requirement to stop fully allows for safer navigation of intersections controlled by a flashing red light.