Mississippi Written Drivers Test Practice

What should you do if you approach a traffic signal that is not functioning?

1. Speed through the intersection

2. Follow the traffic pattern

3. Treat the intersection as a four-way stop

4. Yield to oncoming traffic only

The correct answer is: Treat the intersection as a four-way stop

When approaching a traffic signal that is not functioning, the appropriate action is to treat the intersection as a four-way stop. This means that all vehicles must come to a complete stop and then proceed in the order they arrived at the intersection. This practice ensures that all drivers have a clear understanding of the right-of-way, which is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing collisions when the usual traffic control signals are not operational. By treating the intersection as a four-way stop, drivers are encouraged to remain cautious and look out for other vehicles and pedestrians before proceeding. This method aligns with standard driving practices established for managing situations where traffic signals are inoperative, ensuring a systematic flow of traffic and minimizing the risk of accidents. In contrast, speeding through the intersection can lead to dangerous situations and potential accidents, while simply following the traffic pattern may not provide the necessary caution that is required when signals are unresponsive. Additionally, yielding only to oncoming traffic does not appropriately account for all vehicles at the intersection, which could lead to confusion and potential collisions.