Final answer:
A flashing red light requires a complete stop, similar to a stop sign, while a flashing yellow light advises to proceed with caution. In extreme cases, such as emergency transport to a hospital, breaking traffic laws might be considered under rule utility theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
When approaching a flashing red signal, the action you should take is much like encountering a stop sign. You must come to a complete stop, look both ways, and proceed when the way is clear and it is safe to do so. On the other hand, a flashing yellow signal indicates caution. You should slow down, assess the intersection for any potential hazards, and proceed with caution without coming to a complete stop unless it is necessary for safety.
In a more specific and urgent scenario, such as transporting a pregnant woman who is about to give birth to a hospital at 4 am with no other vehicles around, a rule utilitarian (RU) might argue that breaking the law and going through the red light could be morally acceptable if it leads to greater overall utility or good outcomes. However, generally speaking, it's important to follow traffic laws to ensure safety for all road users.
Installing a traffic signal can significantly improve road safety by controlling vehicle speed and providing safe crossing for pedestrians, thus preventing accidents and potentially saving lives. This is particularly important in high-risk areas where the accident rate has increased to an unacceptable level.