Traffic Signals

Traffic signals are lights that ell you when and where to stop or go. They are usually at intersections. The lights are red (top), yellow (middle) and green (bottom). A lot of intersections in the country have a single yellow or red light.

If a traffic light loses power or is not working right, proceed as if the signal were a stop sign. If you see a police officer directing traffic, make sure to follow their directions.

Red Lights

Steady Red

Come to a full stop. You must wait until the light turns green and there is no cross traffic. You can turn right on red if it is safe to do so and there is no sign prohibiting it. You may turn left on red if you are turning from a one-way on to a one-way street.

When turning on red you need to stop first, yield to all traffic and then proceed staying in your lane.

Flashing Red

You must come to a full stop. You may go when it is safe to do so.

Steady Red Arrow

You must come to a full stop and wait for the light to turn green.

Flashing Red Arrow

You must come to a full stop. You may go when it is safe to do so.

Yellow Lights

Steady Yellow

The light is about to change to red. You must slow down and stop before entering the intersection. If you are in the intersection when the yellow light comes on, do not stop. You can continue through the intersection.

Flashing Yellow

Slow down, check for cross traffic and proceed with caution.

Steady Yellow Arrow

The light is about to change to red. You should stop if it is safe to do so.

Flashing Yellow Arrow

Yield first before turning and proceed with caution.

Green Lights

Steady Green

You can go through the intersection. You must yield to emergency vehicles and others a required by law.

If you are stopped and then the lights turns green, you must allow cross traffic clear before you can go ahead.

If you are turning left, a steady green light means you may turn, but only when is safe to do so. Oncoming traffic has the right-of-way.

Steady Green Arrow

You can turn in the direction of the arrow. There should be no oncoming or crossing traffic while the arrow is green. Remember to watch for pedestrians.