What does a yellow traffic light indicate?

A yellow traffic light serves as a cautionary signal, indicating that the light is about to change to red. At this stage, drivers need to prepare to stop. This is crucial for ensuring safety, as it allows enough time for vehicles already in the intersection to clear it before the light changes completely.

The intention behind the yellow light is to alert drivers to the imminent change, promoting a smooth transition through the traffic cycle. It is essential not to speed up to clear the intersection, as this could lead to dangerous situations, including collisions with vehicles entering from other directions. Proceeding with caution is also important, but the primary instruction of a yellow light emphasizes the need to prepare to stop rather than simply continuing through the intersection.

Understanding the meaning of traffic signals, such as the yellow light, is vital for maintaining road safety and following traffic laws effectively.