You have stopped at an intersection where the traffic light is dark and out of service. Once stopped, how do you decide when to move?
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A.
Move as soon as no vehicle is visible in either direction
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B.
Follow right-of-way rules unless an officer directs you Correct
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C.
Wait for another driver to enter the intersection first
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D.
Wait for the driver on your right to wave you through
The answer is "Follow right-of-way rules unless an officer directs you"
After you stop, the law tells you to continue by the same right-of-way rules that govern any uncontrolled intersection, unless a traffic officer waves you on. Choice A is the trap: a driver applies the everyday reflex that an empty-looking road means clear to go, when the manual demands the ordered right-of-way rules.
The traps in the wrong answers
A. Move as soon as no vehicle is visible in either direction
An empty-looking road does not replace the priority rules the manual sets. This answer reaches for the everyday reflex that a clear view means safe to enter, when the manual demands ordered priority.
C. Wait for another driver to enter the intersection first
The manual does not tell you to wait for a lead driver. This answer applies a follow-someone habit for confusing intersections, when the manual gives ordered rules that decide who moves.
D. Wait for the driver on your right to wave you through
A courtesy wave from another driver has no legal weight at an out-of-service signal. This answer substitutes a passenger-seat courtesy exchange for the ordered priority the manual assigns.
This question tests your knowledge of Traffic Lights in New York. Source: New York State Driver's Manual, "TRAFFIC SIGNALS: Traffic Lights," p.30..
Related New York questions
- A traffic light is completely dark and out of service as you approach the intersection. What does state law require you to do? →
- A white stop line is painted across your lane at a red traffic light. Where must you bring your vehicle to a stop? →
- Aside from a light, sign, or officer requiring it, when else does the manual say you must stop at a stop line or crosswalk? →
- A white arrow is painted on the pavement in your lane at an approaching intersection. What does the arrow tell you? →
- You are stopped at an intersection facing a red arrow pointing left, and the intersection is clear. Under the manual, may you complete the turn? →
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