Question

Difficulty: MediumTraffic Light Signals

A driver approaches a pedestrian hybrid beacon (HAWK signal) at a mid-block crosswalk that is actively displaying alternating flashing red lights. What is the legally required action for the driver?

  1. Come to a complete stop, yield to any pedestrians in the crosswalk, and proceed when the crosswalk is clear.Answer
  2. B
    Slow down and proceed through the crosswalk without stopping if no pedestrians are currently in the vehicle's lane.
  3. C
    Stop completely and remain stationary until the beacon signal turns off completely and goes dark.
  4. D
    Proceed through the crosswalk without stopping because pedestrian hybrid beacons are advisory warnings rather than legally binding signals.

Answer

Come to a complete stop, yield to any pedestrians in the crosswalk, and proceed when the crosswalk is clear.
When a pedestrian hybrid beacon displays alternating flashing red lights, it requires drivers to come to a complete stop before the crosswalk. Drivers must yield right-of-way to any pedestrians in or entering the crosswalk. Once the crosswalk is entirely clear, drivers may legally proceed even while the red lights continue to flash.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the signal type and active aspect
The signal is a pedestrian hybrid beacon displaying alternating flashing red lights.
Recognizing the signal aspect is essential to determining the applicable legal duty.
2
Determine the stopping requirement
A flashing red aspect mandates a full stop behind the stop line or crosswalk line.
Flashing red lights operate under the legal equivalence of a stop sign.
3
Evaluate conditions for proceeding
Check for pedestrians in or entering the crosswalk, yield right-of-way, and proceed once clear.
The alternating flashing red phase permits vehicles to proceed before the beacon turns dark, provided all pedestrians are clear.

Key Concept

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK Signal) Flashing Red Rules
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