If a traffic light turns yellow as you approach, what should you do?

When a traffic light turns yellow, it serves as a warning that the light is about to change to red. The correct action is to stop if it is safe to do so, which allows you to avoid running a red light and potentially causing an accident. Evaluating your situation is essential; if stopping is safe and possible, it ensures compliance with traffic laws and safer roadway conditions.

If it is not safe to stop—such as if you are too close to the intersection when the light changes—you should proceed carefully through the intersection while remaining aware of other vehicles and pedestrians. This dual approach allows for safety and legal compliance depending on the context of your approach to the intersection.

The other options are not recommended: speeding up can lead to dangerous situations; proceeding through the intersection without hesitation can result in running a red light; and reversing could create a traffic hazard and is not a practical solution.