What does a red traffic light mean?

A red traffic light signifies that a driver must stop completely at the intersection. This is crucial for maintaining safety on the road, as it allows vehicles to come to a halt before proceeding. Traffic lights are designed to control the flow of traffic, and a red light indicates that it is not safe to continue through the intersection.

Stopping at a red light prevents potential collisions with cross traffic that may have the right of way, ensuring that all road users, including pedestrians and other vehicles, can navigate intersections safely. In instances where a driver needs to turn right on red, they must first come to a complete stop and ensure that the way is clear of pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Thus, the red light plays a vital role in promoting orderly and safe traffic movement.