Delaware Defensive Driving Practice Test

If a yield sign and traffic signal control a signed traffic lane simultaneously, does this create a contradiction in traffic control?

1. True

2. False

3. Only if the light is red

4. Depends on driver interpretation

The correct answer is: True

A yield sign indicates that the driver must slow down and give way to traffic on a main road, whereas a traffic signal provides direct instructions, such as stopping for a red light or proceeding for a green light. When both a yield sign and a traffic signal control a signed traffic lane at the same time, it indeed creates a contradiction because they offer conflicting instructions about how to proceed. In this scenario, the yield sign suggests that the driver should prepare to relinquish the right of way to other vehicles, while the traffic signal, if it displays a green light, would instruct the driver to continue moving. This confusion can lead to unsafe driving behavior as the driver may not know whether to yield or proceed, potentially resulting in accidents. The combination of these two types of traffic control devices at the same point can cause uncertainty and misinterpretation of the required action needed by the driver, underscoring the importance of clear and consistent traffic signaling to ensure safety on the roads.