If a traffic light is not functioning, what should a driver do?

When a traffic light is not functioning, the correct action for a driver is to stop at the intersection and yield to traffic. This approach aligns with the guidelines for handling intersections where traffic signals are out of order. In such situations, the intersection should be treated as if it were governed by stop signs. This means that all drivers should come to a complete stop before proceeding.

Yielding to traffic means that drivers must look out for vehicles already in the intersection or those that have the right of way based on their position and the rules of the road. This procedure enhances safety by preventing potential collisions that could arise from confusion about right-of-way rules when a traffic light is non-operational.

The other options would lead to unsafe driving practices: accelerating through the intersection could result in accidents, ignoring the light may cause confusion among drivers, and waiting for the light to change is unnecessary since it is not functioning. Thus, stopping and yielding is the safest and most appropriate response in this scenario.