What does a solid red traffic light mean?

A solid red traffic light indicates that you must stop at the intersection. This signal is a clear instruction to all drivers to halt their vehicles until the light turns green. The primary purpose of this signal is to ensure safety and maintain order on the roads, allowing pedestrians to cross and ensuring that vehicles from other directions can also clear the intersection.

While some traffic signals have additional rules regarding right turns at red lights, a solid red light fundamentally requires vehicles to stop first. The need to stop ensures that drivers can fully assess the situation at the intersection and proceed only when it is safe to do so, reinforcing the importance of traffic laws for everyone's safety.