What should you do when traffic control lights are not functioning at an intersection?

When traffic control lights are not functioning at an intersection, the safest and most responsible response is to come to a full stop. This action follows the principles of defensive driving and traffic safety protocols. When the signals are out, the intersection essentially acts as a four-way stop, meaning that all drivers must yield to ensure safety and allow for orderly traffic flow.

Coming to a full stop allows you to assess the situation, observe the actions of other drivers, and make decisions based on traffic patterns. It's crucial to ensure that it is safe before proceeding, which helps prevent accidents at intersections that may otherwise become chaotic when signals are not operational. This approach maintains order and allows drivers to communicate their intentions through proper signaling once they determine it is safe to proceed.

Other choices, while they might seem reasonable in certain contexts, do not promote the same level of caution and safety necessary when signals are malfunctioning. For instance, simply slowing down may not be sufficient as it does not guarantee that other drivers are also being cautious. Continuing at the same speed disregards the potential hazards presented by the lack of functioning signals, and signaling other drivers doesn't provide the same certainty as stopping completely. By stopping, you play a vital role in maintaining the overall safety of the intersection.