What should drivers do when they encounter a yield sign?

When drivers encounter a yield sign, they should slow down and yield to traffic on the road they are entering. This means that drivers must assess the situation in the intersection and give the right of way to any vehicles or pedestrians that are already in the intersection or are approaching it on the road they are entering. The purpose of a yield sign is to promote safe merging into or crossing of an intersection, allowing for the smooth flow of traffic without unnecessary stops when it is safe to proceed.

While it may be appropriate to slow down and yield, drivers do not have to come to a complete stop if the intersection is clear and it's safe to continue, which differentiates the yield sign from a stop sign. Additionally, speeding up to pass through the intersection can be dangerous and is not a safe driving practice. Ignoring the yield sign entirely, even if there appears to be no traffic, can lead to accidents, as it prevents the driver from being appropriately cautious in potentially complex traffic situations. Yielding ensures that all drivers are taking the necessary precautions for safe driving.