How should a driver respond to a traffic signal that is malfunctioning?

When a traffic signal is malfunctioning, it is important for a driver to respond appropriately to ensure safety at the intersection. Treating the intersection as a four-way stop is the correct approach in this situation. This means that all drivers must come to a complete stop at the intersection and yield to the vehicle that arrived first or to the vehicle on the right if there is a simultaneous arrival. This method helps to manage the flow of traffic safely when signals are not functioning as intended.

By treating a malfunctioning signal as a stop sign, drivers can reduce the risk of accidents and confusion among vehicles approaching from different directions. It establishes a predictable system of yielding and enhances safety for all road users, including pedestrians.

Other responses, such as ignoring the signal or waiting for it to correct itself, could lead to dangerous situations, such as collisions or unexpected movements from other drivers. Calling the authorities may be a necessary step after ensuring safety, but it does not directly address the immediate concern of navigating the intersection safely.