What should a driver do when they are approaching a traffic signal that is not functioning?

When a traffic signal is not functioning, it is important for drivers to treat it as a four-way stop. This approach ensures the safety of all road users by allowing vehicles to take turns at the intersection. Each driver must come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to any vehicle or pedestrian that has already entered the intersection or is approaching it closely.

This protocol is in place because non-functioning signals can create confusion regarding right-of-way rules. Treating the intersection as a four-way stop helps to create a clear and safe driving environment, reducing the risk of accidents that could occur from misunderstandings about who has the right to go first. In contrast, continuing at normal speed or making a U-turn would increase the chances of collisions, while yielding only to pedestrians fails to address the rights of other vehicles at the intersection.