What does a red traffic light mean?

A red traffic light indicates that a driver must stop completely at the intersection. This signal is a universal traffic control device that communicates to drivers that they cannot proceed until the light changes to green.

Stopping completely is essential for maintaining road safety, as it allows other traffic, such as vehicles from cross streets or pedestrians, to move safely through the intersection. Ignoring a red light can lead to serious accidents or violations of traffic laws. The importance of stopping entirely is underscored by the fact that proceeding on red without stopping could disrupt the flow of traffic and create hazardous situations.

The other options suggest actions that may be applicable in different traffic scenarios but do not accurately reflect the required response to a red light. For example, yielding or preparing to stop are relevant in various contexts but not when a clear instruction to stop is provided by a red traffic signal.