What action is indicated by a steady red light?

A steady red light indicates that drivers must come to a complete stop at a marked stop line, or before a crosswalk or intersection if no line is present. This is a fundamental traffic signal that communicates to drivers that they are required to yield to any oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Stopping ensures safety and compliance with traffic laws, preventing accidents that could occur from proceeding through a red light.

The behavior must be consistent regardless of circumstances, meaning that stopping is mandatory, even if the intersection appears clear. It is important to understand that, while turning can sometimes be allowed on red after coming to a stop in certain scenarios (such as in jurisdictions where specific laws allow it), the main directive of a steady red light is to stop. Hence, the correct action when approaching a steady red light is to stop at the designated point.