What is the purpose of a yield sign?

A yield sign is designed to inform drivers that they need to slow down and give the right of way to other vehicles or pedestrians that have the right of way in that situation. When a driver approaches a yield sign, they are expected to assess the flow of traffic and determine whether it is safe to proceed or if they need to stop and allow other road users to pass. The purpose is to prevent accidents by ensuring that merging or intersecting traffic is managed safely.

The other options do not accurately represent the function of a yield sign. Yield signs do not indicate that drivers can go fast or require them to stop completely; rather, they facilitate smoother traffic flow by prompting drivers to be cautious and aware of their surroundings. They also do not serve the purpose of alerting drivers to upcoming traffic signals, which is a different function entirely handled by specific warning or signal signs.