What should you do when you encounter a flashing red light?

When you encounter a flashing red light, the correct action is to come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way. This signal is similar in function to a stop sign; it indicates that you must stop completely before proceeding. After stopping, you should yield to any vehicles or pedestrians in or approaching the intersection, ensuring that it is safe to continue.

This is important for maintaining safety at intersections, as it helps prevent accidents by requiring drivers to pause and evaluate the traffic situation. The phrase "yield the right-of-way" means that you must allow other road users to go first if they are already in the intersection or are approaching it and have the right to proceed.

The other options could lead to misunderstandings about right-of-way rules and may create dangerous situations. For instance, proceeding with caution without stopping first does not ensure that you properly assess the intersection. Continuing to drive if no cars are around, or ignoring the signal entirely, disregards traffic regulations that are designed to keep everyone safe on the road.