Navigating Traffic Signals: What to Do When They're Out

When you’re cruising down the road, you expect things to flow smoothly—especially at intersections. But what do you do when a traffic signal is out? The answer is more crucial than you might think! Forgetting the rules here could lead to chaos—or worse. You know what I mean?

Let’s break it down. When a traffic signal isn’t working, the correct procedure is to treat that intersection as a four-way stop. Yep, you heard me right! Each vehicle approaching the intersection must come to a complete stop. Why? Because safety is the name of the game. When every driver stops, it gives everyone a chance to assess the situation, reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Now, you might wonder, “Why not just treat it like a stop sign?” Great question! Treating it as a stop sign could lead to confusion since the stop sign only applies to the closest driver. This could mean some cars go while others don’t, resulting in a recipe for disaster—not something you’d want to navigate through.

So, here's how it works: if you and another car reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the right has the right of way. It’s kind of like a game of musical chairs, but on the road—always be aware of who’s pulling up next to you. Remember, this process keeps the roads safe for everyone, including pedestrians who may be crossing.

Let me explain this a little further. The orderly approach of treating the intersection like a four-way stop helps maintain not just order, but also creates a more predictable driving environment. It’s easy to forget, especially for new drivers who may feel overwhelmed. But picture this: everyone stops, takes a second to look around, and proceeds according to the right of way. What a relief, right?

Now, let’s talk options. You might be tempted to ignore the signal altogether, but that’s a big no-no! Ignoring it means you’re throwing caution to the wind, and we all know how that story usually ends. Or, if you call the police when a light is out, that’s only warranted if there’s an accident or some other complication. Otherwise, they’d probably be too busy handling actual emergencies to come help with a simple traffic light issue!

By treating the situation correctly, we’re not only looking out for ourselves, but we’re also being considerate of others. Just imagine if that light was out on one of your busiest days and everyone else acted recklessly. It’s nerve-wracking just thinking about it.

In the grand scheme of things, the safety of road users doesn’t just hinge on law enforcement and traffic signals; it involves what every single driver does. So, if you’re preparing for the Washington Written Drivers Permit Test, be sure to memorize this procedure. You’ll impress the examiner—and have the confidence to handle such situations like a pro!

In conclusion, remember: when the lights are out at an intersection, treat it as a four-way stop! Simple enough, right? Keeping our roads safe is a community effort. Every bit helps, so let’s drive smart!