If you encounter a flashing red light at an intersection, what should you do?

When you encounter a flashing red light at an intersection, the appropriate action is to come to a complete stop and check both ways. A flashing red light functions similarly to a stop sign, indicating that drivers must stop before proceeding. This action is crucial for ensuring safety, as it allows you to observe any oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or other potential hazards before making a decision to proceed through the intersection.

Checking both ways after stopping ensures that you are aware of your surroundings and can safely continue. This precautionary measure helps prevent accidents and collisions that could occur if a driver were to ignore the light signals or fail to assess the situation adequately.

In contrast, simply proceeding slowly through the intersection or turning around could lead to unnecessary risks, as you might not adequately assess the traffic conditions. Stopping only if there is traffic is also inadequate, as it does not prioritize the safety required at such an intersection. Thus, coming to a complete stop and being vigilant is the best course of action when faced with a flashing red light.