What to Do When a Traffic Signal Isn’t Working

When you’re driving and suddenly find yourself facing a traffic control signal that’s out of commission, it can feel a bit like you’re in an unexpected game of Frogger, right? What should you do? It’s vital to tread carefully, and here’s why: treating the inoperative signal as a stop sign is not just smart; it’s the law.

So, here’s the deal: if that traffic light is flickering, blank, or simply dark, you must come to a complete stop at the intersection. It’s not just about following the rules; it’s about ensuring your safety and that of others on the road. After making a full stop, scan the intersection thoroughly—make sure it’s clear. Then, and only then, proceed with caution.

Now, let’s break it down a bit further. Imagine you zoom through the intersection like you don’t have a care in the world—sounds tempting, right? But if a car comes racing from the other direction, you're putting yourself in serious jeopardy. That's why choosing Option A, which suggests proceeding without reducing speed, is a no-go. And trust me, nobody wants to be that driver involved in a collision.

You might wonder, why not treat the signal as a caution sign (Option C) instead? Well, here's the catch: treating it as a caution would only mean slowing down, not necessarily stopping. This is where misunderstandings can arise, and suddenly, what felt like a harmless shortcut turns into a traffic mess.

What about Option D, which suggests treating the signal as a yield sign? Let’s clarify: yielding doesn’t require a complete stop either, and again, safety comes first. You might be thinking “But isn’t that just a suggestion?” Nope! It's about really ensuring everyone is safe in that moment and knowing that you’re protected legally when you come to that full stop.

Navigating our roads is all about being responsible, and let me tell you, every move you make has consequences. You want your future behind the wheel to be filled with safe travels, not traffic violations. So remember these critical steps: stop fully, check for traffic, and then proceed with caution. You’ve got this!

As you gear up for your Ontario G1 driving exam, keep this scenario in mind; it's likely to show up in one form or another. Knowing how to handle unpredictable situations will not only prepare you for the test but set you up for life on the road. And isn't that what we’re all after—a safe and confident driving experience?