What does a flashing red light indicate to drivers?

A flashing red light is used to command drivers to stop, similar to a stop sign. When faced with a flashing red light, drivers must come to a complete stop and then proceed only when it is safe to do so. This signals that the driver should check for any approaching vehicles or pedestrians before continuing.

The idea behind a flashing red light is to enhance safety at intersections by alerting drivers to an increased sense of caution compared to a solid red light. A solid red light requires a complete stop until the light changes, while the flashing red allows for the possibility of proceeding once the driver has ensured there are no immediate hazards, hence the necessity of stopping first.

The other options do not accurately reflect the meaning of a flashing red light. For instance, ‘stop and wait for a green light’ is misleading because there is no green light involved; a flashing red does not transition to green but indicates a momentary stop is necessary. The choice that states to yield only to pedestrians ignores the broader context of traffic conditions that require the driver to assess all potential hazards. Therefore, the interpretation that a driver may continue only after stopping and ensuring it's safe is the most accurate.