What does a flashing red traffic signal mean?

A flashing red traffic signal indicates that drivers must come to a complete stop, similar to a stop sign. This signal serves to alert motorists to an intersection where they should yield to any ongoing traffic or pedestrians before proceeding. After stopping, drivers may continue only when it's safe to do so.

This rule is crucial for maintaining safety on the roads, as it ensures that vehicles do not enter an intersection without assessing the conditions, potentially preventing accidents. While other options suggest variations of caution or action, they do not align with the requirement of stopping first, which is fundamental for the safe operation of vehicles at intersections governed by flashing red signals.