What is the function of a red traffic signal?

A red traffic signal serves the critical function of indicating to drivers that they must come to a complete stop. This signal is an essential part of traffic management, ensuring safety at intersections by preventing vehicles from entering when it is not their turn to proceed.

When a driver sees a red signal, they are required to halt their vehicle behind the stop line or crosswalk, ensuring that other road users, including pedestrians and vehicles from other directions, can safely move through the intersection. This helps reduce the risk of collisions and facilitates an organized flow of traffic.

In contrast, yielding to traffic, proceeding with caution, or speeding up to clear the intersection would create confusion and increase the chances of accidents, which is why those actions are not appropriate responses to a red traffic signal. Understanding the importance of obeying traffic signals, especially red lights, reinforces the need for caution and patience on the road.