What does a red traffic light mean?

A red traffic light signals that vehicles must come to a complete stop and wait until the traffic light turns green before proceeding. This rule is in place to ensure safety at intersections by controlling the flow of traffic and preventing collisions. When facing a red light, drivers should stop their vehicles at the designated stop line or point before the intersection, allowing pedestrians to cross if applicable and ensuring that they only move forward when it is safe to do so.

The other options describe actions appropriate for different traffic situations. For example, proceeding with caution is typically associated with a yellow traffic light, which signals that the light is about to change. Yielding to pedestrians is important when they are present at crosswalks but is not an action specific to a red light. Slowing down and preparing to stop could apply in scenarios where a driver approaches a situation that requires caution, but it does not accurately represent the requirement of a red light.