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Difficulty: MediumTraffic Light Signals

A driver approaches an intersection where the traffic signal displays a solid green circular light. However, a police officer stationed in the intersection is actively giving hand signals directing the driver to stop. Which driver action is legally required in this situation?

  1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop and follow the direction of the police officer.Answer
  2. B
    Proceed cautiously through the intersection because an active solid green light takes precedence over manual hand signals.
  3. C
    Slow down and treat the officer's hand signal as equivalent to a flashing yellow light by proceeding without stopping.
  4. D
    Stop only if making an unprotected left turn across oncoming traffic, but continue straight through the intersection.

Answer

The driver must bring the vehicle to a complete stop as directed by the police officer, as manual traffic officer signals supersede electronic traffic control devices.
Directions given by a law enforcement officer, traffic control guard, or emergency personnel always take precedence over electronic traffic signals, posted signs, and pavement markings. Even though the traffic light is green, the driver must obey the officer's hand gesture and come to a full stop.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the conflict between traffic control inputs
Recognize that there is an automated signal (solid green light) and a manual directive (police officer ordering a stop).
Traffic scenarios occasionally require human intervention to override automated controls.
2
Apply the legal hierarchy of traffic control devices
Determine that manual directions from law enforcement or authorized traffic personnel take priority over all electronic signals and posted signs.
Traffic laws grant officers overriding authority to manage intersection flow, emergency responses, or hazards.
3
Select the appropriate driver response
Comply fully with the officer's hand signal by coming to a complete stop despite the green light.
Proceeding through the green light against an officer's instruction creates a severe collision hazard and constitutes a moving violation.

Key Concept

Traffic Officer Signal Priority Over Automated Lights
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Traffic Light Signals

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