What does a red traffic light mean?

A red traffic light signifies that drivers must come to a complete stop at the intersection. This signal is an essential part of traffic control, designed to ensure safety by managing the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. When the light is red, it indicates that vehicles should not proceed into the intersection until the light changes to green.

This stop signal is crucial for preventing collisions and ensuring that all road users can navigate intersections safely. The other options, such as yielding, cautioning, or proceeding with caution, do not align with the meanings intended by a red light. Each of those actions pertains to different traffic signals that guide behavior under various conditions, but a red light explicitly instructs drivers to halt. Understanding this rule helps maintain orderly and safe driving practices on the road.