Signs, signals and pavement markings
You are approaching an intersection and the traffic signal turns solid yellow. What should you do?
- Speed up so you clear the intersection before the light turns red.
- Stop if you can do so safely; if you cannot stop safely, cross the intersection with caution. Correct answer
- Stop immediately, even if you are already inside the intersection.
Why
A solid yellow light means caution: the signal is about to turn red. It is not an invitation to race the light. The handbook gives you a two-step test. Can you stop safely? Then stop. If you cannot stop safely because you are too close, the road is slick, or a hard stop would put the vehicle behind you into your bumper, continue through the intersection with caution. Speeding up is the classic mistake that leads to red-light collisions, and slamming on the brakes while you are already in the intersection can be just as dangerous. Note the difference with a flashing yellow light, which asks only for a slower speed and more attention, with no obligation to stop.
Where this comes from
California Driver's Handbook, June 2025 edition. The correct answer is Stop if you can do so safely; if you cannot stop safely, cross the intersection with caution.
The rule behind this one
California road signs, signals and pavement markings goes through the whole topic, with the page of the California Driver's Handbook behind every rule.
More on signs, signals and pavement markings
- You are stopped at a signal showing a red arrow and want to turn in the direction the arrow points. What must you do?
- The center of the road is marked with two sets of double solid yellow lines spaced two or more feet apart. What do these markings mean?
- You come to an intersection where the traffic signal is a flashing red light. What does it require you to do?
- You arrive at an intersection where the traffic signal is completely dark because of a power failure. What should you do?