What does a flashing red traffic light signify?

A flashing red traffic light signifies that drivers must come to a complete stop at the intersection, similar to a stop sign. After stopping, they are required to look for any oncoming traffic or pedestrians and can only proceed when it is safe to do so. This indication is crucial for ensuring safety at intersections where normal traffic signals may be malfunctional or under specific traffic conditions, such as in school zones or during emergencies.

The other options do not accurately reflect the meaning of a flashing red light. For instance, proceeding with caution does not ensure that the driver has stopped fully and checked for safety, while yielding to oncoming traffic implies that a driver has already determined it is safe to continue without stopping. Slow down and continue does not address the necessity of a complete stop. Therefore, understanding that the flashing red light signals a complete stop before safely proceeding is essential for responsible driving practices at intersections.