Tennessee Permit Practice Test

What should a driver do when approaching a yellow traffic light?

1. Accelerate to clear the intersection

2. Stop immediately regardless of conditions

3. Slow down and prepare to stop if it's safe to do so

4. Continue at the same speed

The correct answer is: Slow down and prepare to stop if it's safe to do so

When approaching a yellow traffic light, the appropriate action for a driver is to slow down and prepare to stop if it's safe to do so. A yellow light signals that the light is about to turn red, meaning drivers should not proceed through the intersection as they might during a green light. Slowing down allows for a safe transition, giving the driver ample opportunity to stop before entering the intersection if stopping is feasible based on their distance from the light and road conditions. This action ensures safety not only for the driver but also for any pedestrians or other vehicles in or approaching the intersection. It's crucial to assess the surrounding conditions, such as traffic and road visibility, which can influence the decision to stop. A sudden stop, especially if traffic behind is not prepared, could lead to accidents. Thus, it is vital for drivers to be prepared to halt but to evaluate if it is indeed safe to do so before making that decision.