Philadelphia Drivers License Practice Test

What is the proper way to react to a traffic signal that is not working?

1. Proceed as if the signal were green

2. Come to a complete stop and proceed with caution

3. Ignore the signal and continue driving

4. Stop only if there is other traffic

The correct answer is: Come to a complete stop and proceed with caution

When encountering a traffic signal that is not functioning, the proper course of action is to come to a complete stop and proceed with caution. This approach is crucial because a non-working signal creates an intersection situation similar to that of a four-way stop. By stopping, drivers ensure that they assess the traffic conditions reasonably well before proceeding. This helps to prevent accidents that might arise from misjudging the right of way or failing to notice other vehicles or pedestrians who may also be navigating the intersection. After stopping, drivers should then enter the intersection cautiously, yielding to any vehicles or pedestrians that were present before them, thereby promoting safety for everyone involved. While coming to a complete stop is essential, there are other options that suggest less caution, such as proceeding as if the signal were green. This can lead to dangerous situations since the other direction may have vehicles or pedestrians expecting to cross. Similarly, ignoring the signal or stopping only when other traffic is present fails to ensure that the driver is taking responsibility for safe roadway navigation in uncertain conditions.