What does a yellow traffic light indicate?

A yellow traffic light indicates that the signal is about to change to red, and drivers should prepare to stop. This warning provides a brief interval for drivers to take necessary actions. The primary purpose of the yellow light is to alert drivers that they need to slow down and either stop safely or prepare for the upcoming change in the traffic signal.

While it is essential for drivers to proceed with caution as the light changes, the more critical instruction is the need to prepare to stop for the incoming red light. A driver should be alert and assess whether stopping is safe based on their distance from the intersection at the time the yellow light appears. It is not about speeding up to clear the intersection, as that could lead to dangerous situations or running a red light, which is against traffic laws. Thus, the most accurate response aligns with the fundamental function of a yellow light as a warning to stop.