What does it mean if a traffic light turns yellow?

When a traffic light turns yellow, it serves as a warning signal indicating that the light is about to change to red. The correct action in this situation is to slow down and prepare to stop. This is crucial for ensuring safety at intersections because the yellow light is intended to give drivers a chance to clear the intersection if they are too close to the stopping point when the light turns yellow.

The expectation is that drivers will not speed up to pass through the intersection as the light changes, which could potentially lead to dangerous situations if the light turns red while they are still crossing. Stopping immediately may not always be safe if a car is too close to the intersection, as sudden stops can cause collisions. Therefore, slowing down allows for a better response to the changing light while maintaining safety for all road users. Proceeding with caution is also necessary, but the emphasis is on preparing to stop rather than continuing through the intersection.