You come to an intersection displaying a flashing red light. You should:

1. Come to a full stop and go when it is safe to do so. ✓
2. Stop only if other cars are also approaching the intersection.
3. Stop only if other cars are already within the intersection.
4. Slow down and be prepared to stop, if necessary.

Answer: A. Come to a full stop and go when it is safe to do so.

Come to a full stop, then go when it is safe to do so.

Why this is the answer

The handbook says you must stop fully before you enter the crosswalk or intersection, then go only when it is safe. It also notes that traffic on the crossing road might not stop, so you cannot roll through or wait for other cars before stopping. The complete stop comes first; after that, you judge whether the way is clear. Slowing down alone does not meet this rule.

Why the other answers are wrong

• B. Stop only if other cars are also approaching the intersection. — A full stop is required at this signal no matter whether other cars are approaching; other traffic only affects when it is safe to go.
• C. Stop only if other cars are already within the intersection. — You must stop before entering the intersection, not only when another car is already inside it.
• D. Slow down and be prepared to stop, if necessary. — Slowing down and being ready to stop is not enough here; the handbook calls for a complete stop before you enter the crosswalk or intersection.

Remember it

Don't confuse blinking red with blinking yellow: blinking red begins with a stop, while blinking yellow is a slow-down warning.