Question

Difficulty: MediumPedestrian and Bicycle Signals and Markings

A driver is stopped at a marked mid-block crosswalk equipped with a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK signal). The signal's dual red lights begin alternating in a flashing red sequence while a pedestrian is finishing crossing. What action is the driver legally required to take?

  1. Come to a complete stop, yield to any pedestrians in the crosswalk, and proceed once the crosswalk is clear.Answer
  2. B
    Remain completely stopped at the line until all beacon lights turn off, even after pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk.
  3. C
    Slow down to check the crosswalk and proceed without coming to a full stop if no pedestrians remain in your lane.
  4. D
    Treat the flashing red signal as a warning light and proceed through the crosswalk at the posted speed limit.

Answer

The driver must come to a complete stop, yield to any pedestrians in the crosswalk, and proceed once the crosswalk is clear.
During the alternating flashing red phase of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon, drivers must treat the light as a stop sign. Drivers are legally required to bring their vehicle to a complete stop, yield to any pedestrians in or entering the crosswalk, and may proceed once the crosswalk is completely clear.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the active beacon phase
The Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon is displaying alternating flashing red lights.
Each phase of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon conveys specific legal requirements for drivers.
2
Apply the rule for alternating flashing red lights
Drivers must bring their vehicle to a complete stop at the stop line or crosswalk line.
The alternating flashing red phase functions identically to a stop sign.
3
Determine when it is safe to proceed
After coming to a full stop, drivers may proceed cautiously once all pedestrians have cleared the roadway.
Drivers are not required to remain stopped until the beacon turns off completely once right-of-way has been yielded.

Key Concept

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK Signal) Flashing Red Rules
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