What should you do if the traffic lights are not working at an intersection?

When traffic lights are not functioning at an intersection, it is essential to prioritize safety and follow the appropriate protocol for such situations. Treating the intersection as a four-way stop ensures that all vehicles approaching the intersection come to a complete stop and can proceed in an orderly fashion.

This approach is grounded in traffic laws that help prevent accidents and maintain the flow of traffic when signals are absent. By stopping, drivers can assess the situation and determine which vehicle arrived first, allowing them to yield to the right of way as necessary. This method emphasizes the importance of cautious driving and communication among drivers at the intersection, fostering a safer environment for all road users.

The other options do not adequately address safety or proper traffic management in this scenario. Continuing to drive without stopping could lead to collisions, while calling the police may be necessary if it leads to a significant traffic hazard, it is not the immediate action required at the intersection. Using hand signals to direct traffic is generally not advisable for individual drivers and could create confusion rather than providing clarity.