Question

Difficulty: MediumTraffic Light Signals

You are approaching an intersection where the overhead traffic signal is displaying a solid red light. At the same time, a uniform traffic officer standing in the middle of the intersection explicitly directs you to drive forward through the intersection. What is the legally required action?

  1. Proceed through the intersection following the traffic officer's directions, overriding the solid red signal.Answer
  2. B
    Remain completely stopped at the limit line until the overhead traffic signal changes to green, ignoring the officer's hand signals.
  3. C
    Stop completely at the intersection, wait three seconds, and then proceed forward as if treating the intersection as a flashing red light.
  4. D
    Turn right immediately to clear the intersection without passing through the officer's lane of traffic.

Answer

Proceed through the intersection following the traffic officer's instructions, because manual directions from a traffic officer supersede electronic traffic signals.
Directions given by a traffic officer or police officer directing traffic take precedence over electronic traffic signals, stop signs, and right-of-way rules. Therefore, drivers must follow the officer's instructions and proceed safely despite the red light.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the traffic control devices and personnel present at the intersection.
There is a solid red traffic light signal and a uniformed traffic officer actively directing traffic.
Recognizing the hierarchy of traffic control authority is essential for lawful intersection navigation.
2
Apply the rule of authority hierarchy between electronic signals and traffic officers.
The manual directions of a traffic officer override electronic signals and road signs.
Traffic officers direct traffic manually during emergencies, gridlock, or special events, and their instructions take legal priority.
3
Execute the required driver response.
Follow the officer's hand signal and drive carefully through the intersection while watching for surrounding hazards.
Failing to obey an officer's direct traffic signal order is a serious moving violation.

Key Concept

Traffic Officer Signal Priority
Estimated Time:45s
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