A "stale" green light is a traffic signal that has been green for an extended period, and you didn't see it change, increasing the likelihood that it could turn yellow or red soon.
Understanding Stale Green Lights
Essentially, a stale green light presents a situation where the driver is unsure how long the light has been green. This uncertainty requires heightened awareness and preparedness. Because you didn't witness the light turning green, you can't predict when it will change.
Why Stale Green Lights are Important
- Safety: Stale green lights can be dangerous if drivers assume they have plenty of time to cross the intersection and don't prepare to stop.
- Decision-Making: Approaching a stale green light requires the driver to make a quick assessment of the situation and decide whether to proceed or prepare to stop.
- Right-of-Way Issues: Drivers need to be particularly cautious of vehicles making right turns on red or distracted drivers who might enter the intersection against the signal, even with a green light.
How to Handle a Stale Green Light
- Reduce Speed: Slightly reducing your speed gives you more time to react if the light changes.
- Scan the Intersection: Check for cross-traffic, pedestrians, and any potential hazards.
- Be Prepared to Stop: Position your foot near the brake and be ready to stop smoothly and safely if the light turns yellow.
- Proceed with Caution: If the intersection is clear and the light remains green as you approach, proceed through the intersection while continuing to scan for hazards.
- Avoid Assumptions: Never assume that a stale green light will remain green.
In summary, a stale green light demands caution and awareness from drivers, requiring them to be prepared to stop while assessing potential hazards at the intersection.
