How should you respond to a flashing red light?

When encountering a flashing red light, the appropriate response is to stop completely and then proceed carefully when it's safe to do so. A flashing red light functions similarly to a stop sign, indicating that you must come to a full stop, assess the situation, and yield to any oncoming traffic or pedestrians before continuing through the intersection. This rule ensures that all drivers have the opportunity to react to potential hazards and promotes safety at intersections.

Moreover, waiting and observing allows you to gauge the actions of other vehicles, ensuring that you don't inadvertently cause an accident. The key element here is the requirement to stop fully; simply proceeding with caution or speeding through undermines safety protocols that the traffic light is designed to enforce. Thus, stopping fully is essential to maintain order and prevent collisions.