Practice question

What should you do if a traffic light is red?

  1. Accelerate rapidly to clear the intersection
  2. Come to a complete stop and wait for it to turn green
  3. Proceed if the intersection is clear
  4. Stop only if vehicles are present

Answer: B — Come to a complete stop and wait for it to turn green

When a traffic light is red, the appropriate action is to come to a complete stop and wait for the light to turn green. This is crucial for maintaining safety on the road. A red light is a clear signal that vehicles must stop to allow for the safe passage of traffic moving in other directions, including pedestrians crossing the intersection. This behavior not only respects the traffic laws but also helps prevent accidents that could occur from running a red light. Stopping at a red light ensures that you are complying with established traffic rules designed to regulate and organize the flow of vehicles and protect all users of the road, including cyclists and pedestrians. By waiting for the light to change, drivers can make certain that it is safe to proceed once the light turns green, thereby reducing the risk of collisions or other dangerous situations.

Practice more: Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) Driver's Ed Practice Exam →