Illinois Driving Permit Practice Test 2026 - Free Driving Permit Practice Questions and Study Guide

When traffic signals are not functioning, the correct action is to proceed with caution as if it were a stop sign. This means that drivers should come to a complete stop at the intersection, look both ways for oncoming traffic or pedestrians, and only proceed when it is safe to do so. This approach helps to maintain safety at intersections where the usual traffic control signals are absent, as it mimics the behavior expected at a stop sign.

This method ensures that all drivers treat the intersection with care, especially since the absence of functional traffic lights can lead to confusion and an increased risk of accidents. By stopping and checking for safe passage, drivers can make informed decisions about when and how to merge with ongoing traffic.

Continuing driving without stopping would disregard the potential hazards of an uncontrolled intersection, while yielding only to vehicles on your right does not account for the need for all drivers to have a clear understanding of right-of-way rules in such situations. Using hazard lights may signal a problem, but it does not provide guidance on how to navigate the intersection safely.