What does a red traffic light mean?

A red traffic light universally indicates that drivers must stop. It serves as a signal for all vehicles to come to a complete halt and remain stationary until the light changes to green. This rule is vital for maintaining safety on the roads, as it helps prevent accidents that could occur if vehicles were allowed to move forward while the light is red.

When a light turns red, it typically means that the intersection or area is not safe for vehicles to proceed, often because pedestrians may be crossing or other vehicles may have the right of way. Observing this signal is crucial for obeying traffic laws and ensuring the safety of all road users. Therefore, waiting for the light to turn green is the correct action to take in this situation.