What action must a driver take at a yellow traffic light?

When approaching a yellow traffic light, the appropriate action is to prepare to stop if it is safe to do so. The yellow light indicates that the signal is about to change to red, and it serves as a warning for drivers to assess their situation. If a driver is far enough away from the intersection, they should slow down and prepare to stop safely rather than trying to rush through the light or make sudden stops. This approach helps prevent accidents and ensures that all vehicles can react appropriately to the changing traffic conditions.

In contrast, speeding up to make it through the light can lead to collisions, as it does not consider the possibility of vehicles or pedestrians already in the intersection. Slamming on the brakes can create a dangerous scenario, especially if other drivers are behind, possibly leading to rear-end collisions. Continuing through without slowing down disregards the warning that a yellow light represents and can result in running a red light, which is a traffic violation. Overall, preparing to stop safely aligns with responsible driving practices and traffic regulations.