When is it appropriate to proceed at a steady green light?

Proceeding at a steady green light is appropriate when it is safe to do so. A green light indicates that vehicles are permitted to move through the intersection or continue along their path, but the driver is still responsible for ensuring that the way is clear and safe before proceeding.

Safety involves checking for any potential hazards, such as pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles that may not adhere to the signals. Even with a green light, caution must be exercised to avoid accidents. The driver should look for any obstacles and yield to those who have the right of way, including pedestrians crossing at the crosswalk.

In contrast, a flashing traffic signal typically requires caution but does not signify that it is safe to proceed. A green arrow indicates a protected turn, providing added assurance of safety, while pedestrian crossings require the driver to yield, regardless of the signal. Therefore, the key factor is the assessment of safety before proceeding under a green light.