Question

Difficulty: MediumRight-of-Way Rules at Intersections

You are driving toward an intersection controlled by a traffic light that is displaying a solid red signal. A law enforcement officer directing traffic in the center of the intersection explicitly signals for you to proceed forward. Meanwhile, a vehicle on the cross street is entering the intersection facing a solid green light. What is the correct action to take?

  1. Follow the officer's direction and proceed through the intersection, as traffic officer signals override automated traffic signals.Answer
  2. B
    Remain completely stopped at the red light until the signal turns green, because electronic signals legally supersede hand signals.
  3. C
    Stop and yield right-of-way to the cross-street vehicle facing the green light, then proceed after that vehicle clears.
  4. D
    Yield right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from your right according to basic uncontrolled intersection rules.

Answer

Follow the officer's direction and proceed through the intersection cautiously, because instructions from a traffic officer override electronic traffic lights and posted signs.
Directions given by an authorized traffic officer or law enforcement official take priority over all automated traffic signals, posted regulatory signs, and standard right-of-way rules. When an officer signals you to proceed through a solid red light, you must follow the officer's instructions cautiously.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary authority controlling traffic at the intersection.
Recognize that a law enforcement officer is actively directing traffic on scene.
Under state motor vehicle codes, manual signals from authorized personnel override automated traffic control devices.
2
Evaluate conflict between the red signal light and the officer's hand gesture.
Determine that the officer's explicit signal to proceed overrides the solid red light.
Officers manage real-time intersection safety and override normal right-of-way rules and signal states.
3
Execute the required driving maneuver safely.
Proceed through the intersection cautiously as directed by the officer.
Yielding to traffic light colors or cross-street vehicles when directed by an officer creates confusion and collision hazards.

Key Concept

Traffic Officer Signal Priority
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