What is the proper way to handle an intersection when the traffic light is not working?

When encountering an intersection where the traffic light is not functioning, the safest approach is to treat it as a four-way stop. This means that all drivers must come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way according to established traffic rules. In a four-way stop scenario, the first vehicle to arrive at the intersection has the right to proceed first. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right has the right of way.

This method promotes safety and helps to manage the flow of traffic at an intersection where signals are not operational. It is essential for all drivers to be vigilant and cautious, as the absence of a functioning traffic light can lead to confusion and increase the risk of accidents.

The other responses do not provide safe or legally recognized maneuvers for this situation. Proceeding without stopping could lead to collisions, as other drivers may also be unsure of how to navigate the intersection. Only stopping if there are vehicles present does not ensure safety, as it may lead to misunderstandings about who has the right to move through the intersection. Yielding only to vehicles on the right does not account for the need for all vehicles to come to a complete stop and could similarly cause accidents.