What does a red traffic light mean?

A red traffic light signifies that drivers must come to a complete stop before the intersection, ensuring that they do not enter the crosswalk or traffic lanes while the light is red. This rule is crucial for maintaining safety on the roads, as it prevents collisions between vehicles and ensures that pedestrians can cross safely when they have the right of way.

Coming to a full stop at a red light provides drivers the opportunity to assess their surroundings, check for pedestrians, and prepare to follow the traffic rules once the light changes. Understanding this signal is fundamental for responsible driving and conforming to traffic laws, which are designed to protect all road users.

The other options suggest behaviors inconsistent with safe driving at a red light, such as proceeding or yielding without stopping, or accelerating to clear the intersection, which could lead to dangerous situations on the road.