When approaching a flashing red traffic light, drivers should:
- Drive through the intersection if there is no crossing traffic.
- Continue driving, as they have the right-of-way.
- Stop if a police officer is nearby.
- Treat the light like a stop sign. ✓
Answer: D. Treat the light like a stop sign.
You should treat a flashing red traffic light like a stop sign: stop, then go only when it is safe.
Why this is the answer
The Florida handbook lists flashing red lights under traffic signals and says they are used at dangerous intersections. It tells drivers to treat the light like a stop sign, stop, and proceed when safe. That means a full stop comes first; moving through just because no other car is visible does not meet the rule. The passage does not give a flashing red signal any right-of-way over crossing traffic.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Drive through the intersection if there is no crossing traffic. — Driving through without stopping is not enough; the flashing red signal calls for a stop first, and then you may go when it is safe.
- B. Continue driving, as they have the right-of-way. — A flashing red light does not give you the right-of-way to keep driving; the handbook says to stop and proceed only when safe.
- C. Stop if a police officer is nearby. — The stop rule applies whether or not an officer is nearby; the handbook ties it to the flashing red signal itself.
Remember it
A flashing red is a stop sign in light form.