Question

Difficulty: MediumTraffic Light Signals

You are driving on a city street and approach a mid-block pedestrian crosswalk equipped with a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK signal). The signal sequence has just changed to alternating flashing red lights while pedestrians are walking across the roadway. What action is the driver legally required to take?

  1. Come to a complete stop at the stop line, yield to all pedestrians in the crosswalk, and proceed only after the crosswalk is clearAnswer
  2. B
    Remain completely stopped at the stop line until the beacon overhead turns entirely dark and unlit
  3. C
    Slow down and proceed cautiously through the crosswalk without stopping if pedestrians are in the opposite lane
  4. D
    Maintain cruising speed because alternating flashing red lights serve only as an advisory warning of potential pedestrians ahead

Answer

The driver must bring the vehicle to a complete stop at the stop line, yield the right-of-way to any pedestrians crossing, and proceed cautiously once the crosswalk is completely clear.
During the alternating flashing red phase of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon, drivers must come to a complete stop at the stop line or marked crosswalk line. After stopping, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the street. Once all pedestrians have safely cleared the driver's side and path, the driver may legally proceed through the crosswalk even while the red lights continue to flash.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the traffic signal state
Recognize that the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon is displaying alternating flashing red lights
Different beacon phases dictate distinct legal requirements for stopping and proceeding
2
Apply the statutory rule for alternating flashing red beacon lights
Treat the signal equivalent to a stop-sign controlled intersection (stop and yield)
Traffic law dictates that alternating flashing red lights require a mandatory complete stop
3
Observe the crosswalk environment
Yield right-of-way to all pedestrians in any part of the crosswalk and proceed only when clear
Ensures pedestrian safety while maintaining legal traffic flow once hazard has cleared

Key Concept

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK Signal) Compliance
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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