In a driving situation, what is the safest reaction to a solid yellow light?

A solid yellow light indicates that the traffic signal is about to change to red. This serves as a warning to drivers that they should prepare to stop if it is safe to do so. Responding to a solid yellow light by looking for hazards and stopping when it's safe is the most appropriate reaction, which allows drivers to assess their surroundings and determine if they can safely stop without causing an accident or risking collision with other vehicles.

This approach acknowledges the need for caution and situational awareness, as there may be vehicles approaching from behind that might not be able to stop in time if you suddenly brake. It prioritizes safety by ensuring that the driver scans for any potential dangers, such as pedestrians or other cars, before making the decision to stop.

The other options do not promote safety in this driving scenario. Speeding up through the light can lead to dangerous situations if the light changes while crossing, while slowly approaching without making a decisive move could confuse other drivers. Turning left immediately could also lead to a collision if there are any oncoming vehicles or pedestrians in the intersection. Therefore, evaluating the situation and stopping safely is the most prudent action in response to a solid yellow light.