Whose signals should be followed regardless of traffic lights?

The correct answer is based on the authority and responsibility of traffic control officers. Traffic control officers have the specific training and authority to direct vehicle and pedestrian movements, and their signals are designed to ensure safety on the roads. Even in situations where traffic lights may indicate a different action, following the directives given by a traffic control officer takes precedence. This is crucial to maintain order and safety, especially in scenarios where their intervention is necessary, such as accidents, emergencies, or during specific public events.

In contrast, while signals from emergency vehicles, pedestrians, and road construction crews can be important, they do not hold the same level of authority as those given by a trained traffic control officer. Emergency vehicles may require drivers to yield, whereas pedestrians have the right of way but need to be observed within the context of traffic laws. Road construction crews also provide guidance but are typically not as universally authoritative as a traffic control officer. Thus, understanding the hierarchy of traffic directions is vital for ensuring the safety and compliance of all road users.