Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumTraffic Lights and Signals

You are driving towards a signal-controlled junction. As you approach the stop line, the green traffic light changes to steady amber. What should you do?

  1. A
    Flash your headlights to warn other road users that you are claiming right of way through the junction
  2. Stop before the stop line unless you are so close that stopping safely could cause a collisionAnswer
  3. C
    Accelerate promptly through the junction before the red phase begins
  4. D
    Select neutral and coast across the stop line to maintain momentum through the junction

Answer

Stop before the stop line unless you are so close that stopping safely could cause a collision
According to the UK Highway Code, a steady amber light means you must stop behind the stop line. You are only permitted to continue through if the amber light appears after you have already crossed the stop line, or if you are so close to it that pulling up sharply might cause a collision with traffic following behind.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the legal meaning of a steady amber traffic signal under the Highway Code
Recognise that a steady amber light requires drivers to stop at the stop line
The Highway Code establishes that an amber signal conveys a mandatory instruction to stop
2
Assess vehicle speed and proximity to the stop line
Determine whether pulling up safely before the line is achievable without severe braking
Sudden emergency braking when too close to the line creates a serious rear-end collision risk for following vehicles
3
Select the correct driving response based on the safety exception
Bring the vehicle to a controlled stop before the line unless doing so would be unsafe
Drivers may only continue past an amber light if they have already crossed the stop line or are too close to stop safely

Key Concept

Highway Code Rule 175: Amber traffic light rules and stopping criteria
Estimated Time:45s
Rate this question

Topics

Traffic Lights and Signals

More questions from this topic