If a police officer gives a conflicting hand signal, whom should you obey?

When you encounter a situation where a police officer is giving a conflicting hand signal, it is essential to obey the officer. This is because police officers are authorized to direct traffic and have the responsibility to ensure public safety. Their signals take precedence over other traffic signals, including traffic lights, as they are trained to manage flow and safety in potentially confusing scenarios.

Obeying the police officer not only helps maintain order but also allows for the best response to the unique circumstances at hand, which traffic lights are not equipped to handle. Following a police officer's directions demonstrates compliance with the law and respect for authority, which is crucial in ensuring safe road conditions for everyone. Remember that a police officer is in a position to assess the situation in real-time, whereas traffic lights and navigation systems operate based on pre-set rules and conditions that may not adapt to sudden changes or emergencies.