What does a red traffic light mean?

A red traffic light indicates that a driver must come to a complete stop and not proceed through the intersection or crosswalk. This signal is crucial for maintaining safety on the road, as it controls the flow of traffic and helps prevent collisions. When the light is red, vehicles must wait until the light turns green before proceeding.

The specific meaning of a red light is to halt all movement until it's safe to move again, as signaled by a green light. This rule is essential for traffic regulation, as it ensures that vehicles moving from different directions do not enter the intersection simultaneously, which could lead to accidents.

The other options suggest actions that could compromise safety and disrupt the orderly flow of traffic. For instance, proceeding with caution while the light is red or preparing to stop is not adequate. Speeding up to clear an intersection is dangerous and could potentially lead to severe collisions. Understanding the rules related to traffic signals, particularly red lights, is vital for all drivers, especially for those with a Class 4 license who may be operating larger vehicles or those carrying passengers.