What should you do if a traffic signal turns yellow as you approach?

When a traffic signal turns yellow as you approach, the appropriate action is to prepare to stop safely. A yellow light serves as a warning that the signal is about to change to red, and it is intended to give drivers a chance to clear the intersection safely if they are already in it.

By preparing to stop, you can ensure that you do not run the risk of entering the intersection after the light has turned red, which is not only unsafe but also against traffic laws. It's crucial to assess your speed and distance from the signal; if you are close enough to stop safely before the intersection, you should do so. This approach promotes safety for both the driver and other road users, including pedestrians.

Other choices might lead to unsafe driving behavior. For instance, speeding up could result in running the red light and potentially causing an accident. Continuing at the same speed could mean you miss the opportunity to stop safely, and slowing down significantly might confuse other drivers and increase the risk of a rear-end collision. Preparing to stop is the most responsible and safest choice in this situation.