What does a red traffic light indicate?

A red traffic light indicates that drivers must come to a complete stop at the intersection before proceeding. This signal is a critical component of traffic control, ensuring that vehicles yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians crossing the street. Following this instruction is essential for maintaining safety on the roads.

When a driver sees a red light, they must remain stopped until the light turns green, unless otherwise indicated by signs or signals. This rule helps to prevent accidents and ensures a smooth flow of traffic.

The other options involve different actions that are not appropriate under a red light. While caution is always advised near intersections, yielding to pedestrians and making specific turns only apply under certain conditions and with other signals. Therefore, understanding the significance of a red light is crucial for any driver.