If a traffic signal is malfunctioning, what is the safest way to handle the intersection?

• A. Proceed Through The Intersection As If The Signal Were Green.
• B. Treat The Intersection As A Four-Way Stop And Proceed With Caution.
• C. Ignore The Intersection And Turn Around.
• D. Wait For A Police Officer To Direct Traffic.

Answer: (B)

When a traffic signal is malfunctioning, approach the intersection as if everyone is governed by stop signs. The safest move is to treat it as a four-way stop and proceed with caution.

Come to a complete stop, then look for other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Yield to the vehicle that arrived first, and if you arrive together, yield to the driver on your right. After confirming it’s safe, proceed slowly through the intersection. Stay alert for pedestrians who may assume the signal is working and for drivers who may not follow the rules.

If a police officer is directing traffic, you must follow the officer’s signals. But in the absence of an officer, the four-way-stop approach keeps everyone predictable and reduces the risk of crashes.