What does it mean when a traffic light is yellow?

When a traffic light is yellow, it serves as a warning to drivers that the light is about to change to red. At this time, drivers are advised to prepare to stop, as they should not enter the intersection when it is safe to do so and while the light is still yellow. This ensures that vehicles do not enter the intersection when it is unsafe to do so, reducing the risk of accidents. The yellow light provides a crucial opportunity for drivers to make a safe decision regarding whether to stop or proceed, depending on their distance from the intersection.

The other choices may imply actions that could lead to unsafe driving conditions. Speeding up to clear the intersection, for instance, could lead to an accident as drivers might be caught by the red light or entering a busy intersection unsafely. Proceeding with caution without the intention to stop fails to recognize the need to ultimately halt if the light turns red. Crossing when the light is yellow implies a readiness to ignore the signal's intent, which could lead to dangerous situations. The yellow light clearly indicates that stopping should be prioritized.