A traffic signal with a flashing yellow arrow means

• A. Left turns are protected
• B. You must come to a complete stop before turning left
• C. Left turns are permitted only when there is a solid green arrow
• D. Left turns are permitted after yielding to oncoming traffic

Answer: (D)

A flashing yellow left-turn signal means you may turn left, but you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before making the turn. It’s a permissive signal: you can go once there’s a safe gap, but you don’t have the right of way if opposing vehicles or people crossing still have to clear. Slow down, check for gaps, and only turn when it’s safe. This differs from a protected left turn signaled by a solid green arrow, where you have the right of way without waiting for gaps. The key idea is that you turn only after ensuring it’s safe by yielding to others already in or approaching the intersection.