What does a yellow traffic light indicate?

A yellow traffic light serves as a warning to drivers that the signal is about to change to red. It is crucial to understand that when you encounter a yellow light, it does not mean stop immediately; instead, it indicates that you should prepare to stop unless you are so close to the intersection that stopping would cause a risk of an accident. The primary intention of the yellow light is to alert motorists to the impending change in traffic control, allowing them to slow down and approach with caution rather than accelerating through the intersection.

In essence, the yellow light acts as a transitional phase between green and red, educating drivers on the need to be more vigilant as they approach an intersection, thus aiming to prevent accidents.