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Question

Difficulty: MediumRight-of-Way Rules at Intersections

You are approaching an intersection where the overhead traffic signal displays a solid red light. A uniformed traffic officer standing in the center of the intersection is actively gesturing for your lane to proceed forward. Which of the following describes the correct right-of-way procedure?

  1. A
    Remain stopped at the intersection until the signal turns green, because electronic traffic signals take priority over manual hand signals.
  2. B
    Come to a complete stop at the stop line first, treat the light as a yield sign, and then proceed regardless of the officer's hand gestures.
  3. Follow the manual directions of the traffic officer and proceed carefully through the intersection despite the solid red light.Answer
  4. D
    Treat the solid red light as a flashing yellow signal and proceed at normal speed without looking at the officer.

Answer

Follow the manual directions of the traffic officer and proceed carefully through the intersection despite the solid red light.
Under standard traffic laws, hand directions and signals given by a law enforcement or designated traffic officer supersede all automated traffic signals, regulatory signs, and pavement markings. When an officer explicitly signals for vehicles to proceed through a red light, drivers must follow the officer's instructions while exercising due caution.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the conflict between traffic control devices and manual traffic direction.
Recognize that an overhead solid red light mandates stopping, but an active traffic officer is instructing traffic to move.
Traffic laws establish an explicit hierarchy for right-of-way control mechanisms.
2
Apply the statutory rule governing officer priority.
Determine that directions given by a uniformed officer supersede traffic signals, stop signs, and pavement markings.
Officers manage real-time road conditions, emergencies, or traffic flow adjustments that automated signals cannot handle.
3
Select the required driver response.
Obey the officer's hand gestures and proceed safely through the intersection while maintaining spatial awareness.
Complying with officer directions fulfills legal right-of-way requirements under standard motor vehicle codes.

Key Concept

Traffic Officer Priority Over Signals
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Right-of-Way Rules at Intersections

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