How to Operate When Stopping at a Red Light?
2 Answers
Start decelerating the vehicle and estimate the stopping distance. If the distance is insufficient, gently press the brake with your right foot to shorten the braking distance. Stop the car at an appropriate position. If the red light duration is short, shift into first gear, hold the clutch and brake while waiting for the signal, then shift into neutral and fully engage the handbrake. Press the clutch fully with your left foot, hold the brake with your right foot, shift into first gear, gently apply throttle with your right foot, lift the clutch to the semi-engaged position with your left foot, (and release the handbrake).
Over the years of driving, handling red light stops has become a daily routine for me. When I see the red light flashing at the intersection ahead, I start easing off the accelerator dozens of meters away, letting the car coast on inertia—this saves fuel and ensures a smooth ride. Then, I gently press the brake pedal with my right foot, gradually reducing the speed to zero, ensuring the car comes to a steady stop behind the line without crossing it. While stopping, I always glance at the rearview mirror to check the distance from vehicles behind, especially during rush hours or on highways, maintaining a gap of at least two car lengths. If it's raining or on a steep slope, I slow down even earlier to prevent tire slippage. During the stop, I keep my foot firmly on the brake, avoid distractions like using my phone, and stay ready to move when the light turns green. I remember the lesson from my early driving days when I had to brake abruptly; now, with this smoother approach, I feel much safer, especially when driving at night. Mastering these details has significantly reduced the risk of accidents.
