Flashing lights at intersections and on roadways generally indicate deviations from normal traffic patterns and require increased caution from drivers. They signal a need to adjust your driving behavior to ensure safety.
Here's a breakdown of common flashing light scenarios and their meanings:
1. Flashing Red Lights:
- Meaning: Act as a stop sign. You must stop completely, yield to cross-traffic and pedestrians, and proceed only when it is safe to do so.
- Location: Often found at intersections where stop signs are warranted but a full traffic signal isn't always necessary, or when a regular traffic signal is malfunctioning.
- Action: Stop, yield, proceed when safe.
2. Flashing Yellow Lights:
- Meaning: Proceed with caution. Be aware of potential hazards in the intersection or on the roadway. You do not need to stop unless there is conflicting traffic.
- Location: Frequently used at intersections with moderate traffic volume or pedestrian activity. They might also be used to warn drivers of upcoming construction zones or other temporary hazards.
- Action: Slow down, be alert, and proceed with caution.
3. Flashing Yellow Arrow:
- Meaning: Permitted to turn left, but you must first yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Proceed only when it is safe to do so. Oncoming traffic has a green light.
- Location: Used as part of a protected/permissive left turn signal.
- Action: Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, then turn left when safe.
4. Flashing Blue Lights:
- Meaning: Typically indicate the presence of law enforcement or other emergency personnel. It can also indicate a school bus is present.
- Location: Used on police vehicles, school buses, and occasionally on other emergency vehicles.
- Action: Proceed with caution, be prepared to stop, and obey any instructions from law enforcement officers. Be prepared for children loading/unloading on a school bus.
5. Flashing White Lights:
- Meaning: Can have varied meanings based on context. Often used near railroad crossings to indicate an approaching train or on tow trucks to warn of traffic obstructions.
- Location: Railroad crossings, tow trucks, construction zones.
- Action: Be aware of your surroundings and obey any traffic control devices. Near railroads, stop until lights stop flashing and gate rises.
Why are Flashing Lights Used?
- Malfunctions: To indicate that a regular traffic signal is not functioning properly.
- Reduced Traffic: During off-peak hours, to allow traffic to flow more freely while still providing a degree of safety.
- Specific Hazards: To warn drivers of temporary or specific hazards, such as construction zones or pedestrian crossings.
Important Considerations:
- Always be aware of your surroundings and look for other traffic control devices (signs, pavement markings) in conjunction with flashing lights.
- Adjust your speed and driving behavior accordingly to maintain a safe following distance and be prepared to react to unexpected situations.
- Never assume that other drivers will obey the rules of the road. Be prepared to yield even if you have the right-of-way.
In summary, flashing lights are visual cues that alert drivers to potential hazards or deviations from normal traffic patterns, requiring them to exercise increased caution and adjust their driving accordingly.
