A 3-minute lesson from the Utah course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Traffic signals assign turns at busy intersections, but a green light never guarantees safety. Know what every color, arrow, and flashing light means, and what to do when signals fail or an officer takes over.
Know the rule
Traffic controls include signals, signs, and road markings, plus directions from law enforcement, highway workers, and school crossing guards.
Always obey a police officer at an intersection, whatever the lights show. If the light is green and the officer says stop, you must stop; if the officer signals you to turn, you must turn.
If the traffic lights are not working, come to a complete stop before entering and yield to any vehicle on your right, unless a peace officer directs otherwise.
You arrive at an intersection where the signals are dark after a storm. You stop completely, then let the car that stopped on your right go first before you proceed.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
What must you do at a steady yellow traffic light?
Speed up to clear the intersection
Treat it exactly like a green light
Prepare to stop; the light is about to turn red
Stop immediately no matter what
Answer: Prepare to stop; the light is about to turn red
A yellow traffic light means the light is about to change to red.
