Question

Difficulty: MediumTraffic Light Signals

A driver approaches an intersection where the main circular traffic light is steady red, but a steady green arrow pointing to the right is simultaneously illuminated. Which of the following describes the legally required action for a driver intending to turn right?

  1. Proceed cautiously in the direction of the green arrow without stopping, yielding the right-of-way to pedestrians and oncoming traffic lawfully using the intersection.Answer
  2. B
    Come to a complete stop at the stop line before executing the right turn, treating the green arrow identically to a standard right turn on a solid red light.
  3. C
    Remain stopped and wait until the main circular signal light turns solid green before initiating any turning maneuver.
  4. D
    Stop immediately and wait for a law enforcement officer to direct traffic, because a red circular light alongside a green arrow indicates a signal malfunction.

Answer

Proceed cautiously in the direction of the green arrow without stopping, yielding the right-of-way to pedestrians and oncoming traffic lawfully using the intersection.
A steady green arrow signal indicates a protected turn phase. Drivers turning in the direction of the arrow may proceed without stopping, while yielding to pedestrians crossing and vehicles already legally within the intersection.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify signal elements and specific lane rules
The signal displays a circular steady red light together with a steady green right-turn arrow.
Traffic light signals often combine general stop indications with movement-specific allowances.
2
Apply traffic signal right-of-way rules for turn arrows
A steady green arrow indicates a protected turn phase for that specific direction.
The green arrow permits movement in the specified direction even while straight-through traffic must stop for the circular red light.
3
Determine legal driver duty
The driver may proceed into the turn without coming to a stop, provided the turn path is clear of pedestrians and existing traffic.
A full stop is unnecessary for a green arrow, unlike a standard right-turn-on-red situation.

Key Concept

Protected Turn Signal Operations (Green Arrow with Red Main Signal)
Estimated Time:45s
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