What does a yellow traffic light indicate?

A yellow traffic light indicates that the light is about to turn red, meaning drivers should prepare to stop. It serves as a warning that they need to make a decision on whether to continue through the intersection or stop safely. The purpose of the yellow light is to provide a brief period for drivers to react appropriately, as it signifies that the right-of-way is changing and they must be cautious of the upcoming red light.

This understanding is crucial for maintaining safety on the roads, especially for motorcyclists who may require more time to stop based on their speed and road conditions. The other options either misinterpret the meaning of the yellow light or refer to situations that do not apply, such as malfunction indicators or pedestrian caution, which are not the primary purpose of a yellow traffic signal.