What does a single, solid white line across a road at an intersection signify?

A single, solid white line across a road at an intersection signifies that drivers must stop within a certain distance of the line when approaching a sign or traffic light. This indicates a defined stopping point where vehicles should prepare to yield for traffic controls such as stop signs or traffic signals.

This rule helps maintain safety and order at intersections by clearly demarcating where vehicles should halt. Stopping at the white line ensures that drivers have an adequate line of sight for any oncoming traffic or pedestrians. It also prevents vehicles from encroaching into pedestrian crosswalks, thereby minimizing the chances of accidents involving pedestrians.

It is essential to note that other options presented do not accurately reflect the meaning of the single, solid white line. For instance, while caution is always important when approaching intersections, the primary directive here is adherence to the stopping point for traffic control devices. Similarly, the idea of stopping only for pedestrians misconstrues the purpose of the line, as it pertains to stopping for broader traffic signals, not solely pedestrian right of way. Additionally, yielding to oncoming traffic does not specifically address the instructional purpose of the white line; rather, it suggests a different traffic situation altogether.