What is the primary action to take when approaching a traffic light that is completely dark?

When approaching a traffic light that is completely dark, treating it as a stop sign is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with traffic regulations. This approach follows the principle of caution and awareness of the surrounding environment. In situations where traffic signals are non-functional, such as during a power outage or technical failure, it is crucial to stop completely at the intersection.

By treating the dark traffic light as a stop sign, drivers are prompted to assess the intersection carefully for oncoming traffic and pedestrians before proceeding. This action helps prevent accidents and ensures that each driver follows the rules of the road, which dictate that intersections should be navigated cautiously when signals are not operable.

While turning on headlights is a good practice for visibility and can help others see you, it doesn't address the necessity of stopping at the intersection. Proceeding with caution is essential when dealing with any traffic signals, however, simply being cautious does not replace the necessity of stopping where required. Waiting for a police officer could create unnecessary delays and may not be practical, as officers may not always be available to direct traffic in such situations. Therefore, treating the dark traffic light as a stop sign aligns with both safety and legal driving practices.