What is a traffic break?

A traffic break occurs when a law enforcement officer drives back and forth across multiple lanes of traffic with their lights flashing. This maneuver is typically used to control the flow of traffic, especially in situations where there may be hazards on the roadway or to facilitate the safe removal of an obstruction. By creating a visible presence and controlling the speed and movement of vehicles, the officer can prevent accidents and ensure the safety of both drivers and emergency responders.

The action of driving back and forth also allows the officer to manage traffic effectively, creating a temporary pause or slow down that assists in resolving whatever situation necessitated the traffic break. This method can help to protect the integrity of a scene while also preventing further incidents from occurring.

In the context of the other choices, stopping all vehicles for road maintenance would imply a planned and stationary halt, which is not as dynamic as a traffic break. Creating a delay at intersections does not accurately capture the specific method of managing traffic outlined in the correct answer. Lastly, a sudden stop of all traffic suggests an abrupt and potentially dangerous situation, which would not align with the controlled and deliberate actions involved in executing a traffic break.