Question

Difficulty: Very hardSpecial Zone Signs and Markings

While driving on an arterial roadway, you approach a mid-block Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK signal) operating at a marked crosswalk. The beacon sequence has just transitioned from steady solid red to dual alternating flashing red lights. A pedestrian who triggered the signal has completely cleared your side of the roadway and is walking on the far curb. Under standard traffic control rules, which driving action is legally required during this alternating flashing red phase?

  1. Come to a complete stop at the stop line, yield to any remaining pedestrians in the crosswalk, and then proceed with caution once your path is clear.Answer
  2. B
    Remain completely stopped at the stop line until the beacon lights turn completely dark, regardless of whether pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk.
  3. C
    Slow down and proceed through the crosswalk without coming to a complete stop, treating the alternating red lights as a advisory flashing yellow signal.
  4. D
    Maintain your current cruising speed because flashing red indicators on hybrid beacons serve only as advance warnings for upcoming school zones.

Answer

The driver must come to a complete stop at the stop line, yield right-of-way to any pedestrians in the crosswalk, and may proceed with caution once the roadway is clear, even while the beacon continues flashing red.
During the alternating flashing red phase of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK signal), traffic control laws require drivers to come to a complete stop at the stop line. After stopping, drivers must yield to any pedestrians in or approaching the crosswalk. Once the crosswalk is clear of pedestrians, drivers may legally proceed through the crosswalk even if the dual red lights are still flashing.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the signal type and active phase
The device is a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK) in the alternating flashing red phase.
Different signal phases carry distinct legal requirements under standard traffic control manuals (MUTCD).
2
Apply the statutory rule for alternating flashing red lights on hybrid beacons
An alternating flashing red signal requires a mandatory complete stop at the stop line or crosswalk boundary.
Flashing red display modes function legally identical to a stop sign.
3
Assess right-of-way and pedestrian safety conditions
The pedestrian has safely reached the far sidewalk and your side of the crosswalk is clear.
Drivers are permitted to proceed after stopping during a flashing red phase once all pedestrians have cleared the travel lanes.

Key Concept

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK Signal) Operational Phases
Estimated Time:1m 15s
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