What does a red light mean at an intersection?

A red light at an intersection indicates that drivers must stop their vehicles and wait for the signal to change to green before proceeding. This rule is crucial for ensuring the safety of all road users, as it helps manage the flow of traffic and prevents collisions. When a red light is displayed, it serves as a clear instruction to halt, allowing cross traffic and pedestrians to move safely. Compliance with this signal is fundamental to traffic laws and signals, and it helps maintain order on the road.

While some drivers might consider other actions, such as proceeding with caution or turning right without stopping, these do not adhere to the standard traffic laws associated with a red light. Turning right on red is permitted in many places after a complete stop, but it requires that the driver yields to other traffic and pedestrians first. Speeding up to clear the intersection is unsafe and directly contradicts the purpose of traffic signals, which aim to control traffic flow and enhance safety.