What should you do if you see a red traffic light?

When you encounter a red traffic light, the appropriate action is to come to a complete stop. This is fundamentally important for maintaining safety on the road. A red light signals that vehicles must halt to allow cross traffic to proceed, thereby helping to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth flow of traffic.

Stopping at a red light also allows you to assess the traffic situation before making your next move, whether that involves waiting for the light to change or preparing to turn at an intersection when permitted. Observing this rule reinforces the respect of traffic signals, which is crucial for overall road safety.

Being prepared to yield at a stoplight may sometimes be a secondary consideration, but it does not take precedence over the fundamental requirement to stop at a red light. Ignoring the signal or accelerating to beat it can lead to serious accidents and legal violations. Therefore, stopping completely is the safest and most responsible action when faced with a red traffic light.