What should you do if a traffic light is malfunctioning?

When a traffic light is malfunctioning, treating it as a stop sign is the appropriate course of action. This means coming to a complete stop, checking for any oncoming traffic, and then proceeding when it is safe to do so. This procedure helps ensure safety at intersections where traffic flow may be disrupted due to the malfunction, preventing collisions that could occur if drivers mistakenly assumed that the light indicated go or yield.

Treating a malfunctioning light as a stop sign incorporates the fundamental rules of right-of-way, allowing drivers to assess their surroundings before moving forward. It also helps maintain orderly traffic flow and reduces confusion among motorists who may encounter the malfunctioning light.

In contrast, proceeding with caution as if the light were green could lead to dangerous situations, as other drivers may also interpret the situation differently. The idea of yielding to vehicles on the main road assumes a specific layout which may not apply in all malfunctioning light scenarios, and ignoring the light entirely disregards traffic safety protocols entirely, leading to potential accidents.