What should you do at an intersection with a malfunctioning traffic signal?

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When signals aren’t working, the safest approach is to treat the intersection like a four-way stop. Stop completely, look around for cross traffic and pedestrians, and determine who arrived first to proceed. If you arrive at the same time as another vehicle, yield to the vehicle on your right; if that’s not clear, proceed cautiously and gives priority to the most predictable path. Only move forward when the way is clear and you can do so safely, then continue with caution through the intersection.

This method creates clear, predictable rules for everyone, which helps prevent crashes when normal signal control is unavailable. Driving through as if nothing is wrong, speeding through, or turning around ignores the temporary control and raises collision risk. Always watch for pedestrians and bicyclists who might be in or approaching the intersection.