Yellow
The signal indicates stop if safe braking is possible
When You See This Sign
When you see a yellow signal you should stop at the stop line if you can do so with a safe deceleration. If a safe deceleration is not possible you should instead pass the signal carefully and attentively, taking other road users into account.
Rules & Regulations
- Stop at the stop line or before the intersection if you can do so with a safe and controlled deceleration.
- If a safe deceleration is not possible (for example you are too close to the signal or there is a risk of being struck from behind) you should continue through the intersection with caution.
- Do not accelerate to try to pass before red; yellow means prepare to stop when it is safe to do so.
- Always assess the situation based on traffic behind you, pedestrians and cyclists before deciding to stop or pass.
Tips for Drivers
- Take a quick early glance in the rearview mirror to see if vehicles behind you have the opportunity to brake before you begin a strong deceleration.
- Brake smoothly and in plenty of time if you plan to stop — avoid sudden braking that can cause a rear-end collision.
- If you judge that you will not be able to stop, hold your course and pass the signal calmly and attentively rather than turning the wheel or making abrupt maneuvers.
- Be attentive to pedestrians and cyclists at crossings near the signal, as they may be uncertain and suddenly start to cross.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that yellow always requires an immediate stop regardless of whether it is safe — the correct action is to stop only if a safe deceleration is possible.
- Increasing speed to 'beat' the red when the light turns yellow, which increases the risk of accidents.
- Braking hard without checking the traffic behind you, which can lead to a rear-end collision.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Yellow
What does this light mean for your driving?
- A Stop if you can brake safely; otherwise pass carefully.
- B Always continue without stopping.
- C Prepare to drive — green light will come shortly.
- D Always let pedestrians go first.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may be given scenarios where you must decide whether to stop or continue when the light changes to yellow. Remember: answer that you stop if a safe deceleration is possible; otherwise continue cautiously — follow-up questions often probe distance and the traffic situation.
Did You Know?
The yellow signal (code SIG4 in the national transport authority's regulations) corresponds to the international 'amber' and is highlighted in driver theory because it requires an assessment of safety rather than an absolute demand to stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Must I always stop when the signal shows yellow?
No. You must stop if you can do so with a safe deceleration. If a safe deceleration is not possible you should pass the signal with caution.
Can I accelerate to make it through before red when it turns yellow?
No, you should not increase speed to try to pass before red. That is dangerous and may be a traffic violation; instead assess whether a safe deceleration is possible.
What should I do if someone behind is following too closely when I want to stop for yellow?
If a safe deceleration risks causing a rear-end collision, avoid stopping and instead pass the signal carefully. Then adjust your speed and look for a safe place to stop if needed.
Does the yellow rule also apply to cyclists and pedestrians?
The principle also applies to cyclists and pedestrians: stop if a safe deceleration is possible. Because bicycles often have longer stopping distances or less control, drivers should be especially attentive to their behavior.
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