When encountering a traffic light that is not working, how should you treat the intersection?

When you approach an intersection with a non-functioning traffic light, it is necessary to treat it as a four-way stop. This means that all drivers must come to a complete stop and yield to any vehicles or pedestrians that are already in the intersection or arriving at the same time. This practice helps ensure safety and order at intersections, especially when the typical traffic control signals are not operational.

In a four-way stop scenario, drivers are responsible for assessing the situation and taking turns based on the order of arrival. This rule is essential for preventing accidents and maintaining a smooth flow of traffic when signals are absent. Recognizing the situation as a four-way stop reinforces the importance of caution and communication among drivers, as well as compliance with established traffic laws that govern how to navigate such intersections safely.