What must you do if a traffic signal is not working?

When a traffic signal is not functioning, it is important to treat the intersection as a four-way stop. This means that all vehicles approaching the intersection must come to a complete stop and yield to any vehicles or pedestrians that are already in the intersection or that arrive before them. This rule helps maintain order and safety at intersections where traffic signals are out of service.

Understanding this approach is crucial, as it ensures that all drivers are on the same page regarding how to navigate the intersection safely. In contrast, proceeding as if the signal were green, waiting for a police officer to direct traffic, or continuing to drive cautiously without stopping could lead to confusion and increase the risk of accidents. Therefore, treating the non-functioning traffic signal as a four-way stop is the best practice to promote safety and effective traffic management.