What is the purpose of a yield sign?

A yield sign serves to alert drivers that they must slow down and be prepared to give way to oncoming traffic or pedestrians. The main purpose of this sign is to manage traffic flow at intersections where there may be competing vehicles or road users. When approaching a yield sign, drivers should assess the situation and allow other vehicles or people to proceed if the right-of-way is theirs. This promotes safety by reducing the potential for collisions at points where traffic converges, such as intersections or merging lanes.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the function of a yield sign. For example, requiring drivers to speed up or imposing a complete stop does not align with the yield concept, as a yield sign does not demand stopping unless necessary. Additionally, while a yield sign might imply caution in areas where construction is present, it specifically does not serve to notify drivers about road construction proximately. Instead, it focuses on the obligation to yield the right-of-way.