Final answer:
False. Drivers must follow the hand or flashlight signals given by a police officer even if they contradict traffic signals. The police officer's instructions take precedence to ensure safety and address situations beyond the scope of automated signals.
Step-by-step explanation:
In situations involving traffic control and law enforcement, it's a common misunderstanding that traffic signals hold the highest authority. However, this is false. When there is a discrepancy between what a traffic light indicates and the hand signals or flashlight signals given by a police officer, drivers must follow the instructions provided by the officer. These signals by the officer take precedence because the officer may be responding to an emergency, directing traffic due to an accident ahead, or managing a traffic situation that the static signals cannot accommodate.
For instance, if you're at an intersection with a green light, but an officer signals for you to stop, you should obey the officer's direction. This action becomes part of the driver's obedience to the legitimate authority, similar to when a driver pulls over after seeing the flashing lights of a police car. Police officers have the jurisdiction to override regular traffic signals when necessary to ensure safety and manage traffic flow effectively. Ignoring their directions can not only lead to legal repercussions but can also pose a safety risk.
Pedestrian safety is another reason why an officer's signals might override those of a traffic light. Officers might alter traffic patterns to allow a large group of pedestrians, such as students crossing to a campus, to do so safely—especially if there is no specific traffic signal designated for pedestrian crossing. Moreover, during certain emergency situations, such as when a driver is transporting someone in need of urgent medical help to a hospital, police might facilitate expedited travel to support the wellbeing of individuals.