What does a flashing red traffic light mean?

A flashing red traffic light functions as a signal for drivers to treat the situation with the same caution as a stop sign. It indicates that you must come to a complete stop at the intersection, ensuring that you check for any approaching traffic before continuing. This precaution helps maintain safety for all road users, as it allows drivers to assess the traffic conditions thoroughly before moving forward.

In contrast, the other options do not convey the correct action required at a flashing red light. Simply proceeding with caution without stopping could lead to accidents, while speeding up to clear the intersection contradicts the fundamental idea of safety and compliance with traffic regulations. Yielding to oncoming traffic, while important in certain scenarios, does not apply directly to the function of a flashing red light, as the most crucial requirement is to stop first and then proceed safely when the way is clear.