What does a red light indicate when driving?

A red light is a universal signal associated with the requirement for vehicles to come to a complete stop. In the context of traffic control, the red light serves as a clear directive that drivers must halt their vehicles at the intersection or the designated stop line. This action is crucial for maintaining safety on the road, as it allows for the orderly flow of traffic and protects pedestrians who may be crossing the street.

While the other choices suggest various actions drivers might take in response to a red light, none align with the strict requirement to stop. Preparing to stop is a necessary action when approaching a red light, but the law explicitly mandates that drivers must come to a complete stop once they reach the intersection. Proceeding with caution and increasing speed contradict the fundamental rule that a red light means to stop and yield the right-of-way to any vehicles or pedestrians in the intersection. Thus, understanding that a red light indicates the necessity for a complete stop is essential for safe driving practices.