Question

Difficulty: MediumTraffic Light Signals

You are approaching an intersection where the electronic traffic signal is displaying a steady solid red light. A uniformed police officer standing in the center of the intersection explicitly gestures and directs you to proceed straight through. What is the legally required driver action in this situation?

  1. Obey the police officer's hand directions and proceed through the intersection despite the red signal light.Answer
  2. B
    Remain stopped at the red light until the electronic signal cycles to green, regardless of the officer's hand gestures.
  3. C
    Stop fully, yield to cross traffic, and execute a right turn only, as straight movement remains forbidden during a solid red light.
  4. D
    Treat the red light as a flashing yellow signal and proceed with caution without waiting for the officer's confirmation.

Answer

The driver must follow the manual directions given by the police officer and proceed through the intersection, as police officer directions supersede electronic traffic signals.
The option stating that drivers must obey the police officer's hand directions and proceed through the intersection is correct because law enforcement officers directing traffic take precedence over electronic traffic signals and regulatory signs.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the conflict between the traffic control devices
Recognize that the steady red light signals a requirement to stop, while the traffic officer signals to proceed.
Determining which authority takes precedence is necessary to act safely and legally.
2
Apply the rule of traffic control hierarchy
Confirm that lawful orders and manual signals from traffic control officers supersede electronic signals and signs.
Traffic laws grant officers priority to manage immediate traffic conditions or emergencies.
3
Determine the correct driver action
Proceed through the intersection cautiously following the officer's hand signals.
Following the officer's directive ensures intersection safety and complies with traffic laws.

Key Concept

Traffic Officer Signal Priority
Estimated Time:45s
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