What should a driver do when approaching a steady yellow or amber signal?

When a driver approaches a steady yellow or amber signal, the appropriate response is to slow down and stop before entering the intersection if it is safe to do so. The yellow signal serves as a warning that the traffic light is about to change to red, indicating that vehicles should either prepare to stop or continue moving only if stopping would be unsafe.

By slowing down, drivers give themselves the opportunity to evaluate their surroundings and determine whether they can safely stop. If they are too close to the intersection to stop safely, it may be necessary to proceed through the intersection with caution. However, the primary intention of the yellow light is to alert drivers to reduce speed and prepare to stop, helping to prevent accidents in situations where a red light would follow.

Returning briefly to the other choices, speeding up to clear the intersection could pose significant safety risks not only to the driver but also to pedestrians and other vehicles. Proceeding without stopping may lead to violations and unsafe situations, while stopping immediately without considering the circumstances could also lead to rear-end collisions. Therefore, slowing down and stopping when it's safe aligns best with the intended purpose of the yellow signal.