When approaching a steady 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 only if a police officer is nearby.
- Come to a complete stop. ✓
Answer: D. Come to a complete stop.
When you approach a steady red light, come to a complete stop.
Why this is the answer
The handbook's rule for a red light is to stop completely before entering the crosswalk or intersection, and only then move ahead once you can do it safely. It also points out that traffic on the road you want to cross may not have to stop, so the light is what gives them the right to keep moving while you wait. Slowing down alone does not satisfy the rule; the handbook says plainly that slowing down is not adequate where a full stop is required.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Drive through the intersection if there is no crossing traffic. — The stop is required no matter how empty the crossing road looks, so rolling through because no traffic is visible is not what the handbook allows.
- B. Continue driving, as they have the right-of-way. — A steady red light does not give you the right-of-way; the handbook notes that vehicles on the intersecting road may not have to stop, so continuing is the opposite of the rule.
- C. Stop only if a police officer is nearby. — Nothing in the handbook ties the stop to an officer being present; the red light itself requires the complete stop every time.
Remember it
Treat a steady red like a stop sign on a pole: wheels fully stopped first, then look and go when it is clear.
Official handbook: Texas Driver Handbook (DL-7), Chapter 4: Right-of-Way , p. 25