Most drivers understand the basic rules of traffic signals: stop at red lights, proceed through green lights, and use caution when approaching yellow lights. However, knowing what to do when a traffic signal starts flashing can be less straightforward.
Flashing traffic lights may indicate a signal malfunction or a change in normal traffic operations. These situations can create confusion and increase the risk of car accidents, especially when drivers are unsure who has the right of way.
Understanding how to respond to flashing red and yellow lights can help you navigate intersections safely and avoid collisions. Below, we explain what these signals mean and how drivers should respond.
Common Causes of Flashing Traffic Lights
There are several reasons why you may encounter flashing lights at an intersection in Austin. Some drivers may be caught off guard when they approach a familiar intersection that suddenly has flashing lights instead of solid ones.
Some of the most common causes of flashing lights are:
- Power outages
- System or logic errors
- Loop or sensor malfunctions
- Off-peak night mode
- Maintenance mode
- Emergency vehicle exits
- School zones
Regardless of the cause of the flashing lights, you must know the law and understand how to safely proceed through the intersection without getting into an accident.
What Does the Law Say About Flashing Lights at Intersections in Texas?
The Texas Transportation Code directly addresses the situation of flashing lights at an intersection. The law details exactly how a driver should proceed when the traffic lights are flashing.
Flashing Red Light
Drivers who are facing and approaching a flashing red light must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line. If there is no stop line, they should stop prior to entering the crosswalk. Once stopped, the driver should follow the same rules as if they were at a stop sign. This means that the driver must remain stopped and proceed through the intersection only when traffic is clear and they can safely do so.
Flashing Yellow Light
Drivers approaching a flashing yellow light are not required to stop. In this situation, they should proceed through the intersection with caution. This means that these drivers should be aware of their surroundings and be prepared to stop if necessary to avoid an accident. However, there is no legal requirement for these drivers to stop in the absence of a hazard.
Typically, one street at an intersection will have a flashing yellow light while the cross-street has a flashing red light. This means that traffic on the street with the flashing yellow should continue moving without stopping, and traffic on the cross-street with the flashing red must stop and proceed only when the intersection is clear.
Flashing Green Light
The law does not include conditions for a flashing green signal. This is not something that drivers should encounter in the United States. However, flashing green signals are sometimes used in Canada at intersections that are activated by pedestrians.
What Should I Do at an Intersection When the Traffic Lights Are Out?
If you approach an intersection with malfunctioning traffic lights that are totally out, you should treat the intersection as a four-way stop. Traffic in all directions should come to a complete stop. The first vehicle to arrive at the intersection has the right-of-way, and the vehicle on the right should proceed first when two vehicles arrive at the same time.
Contact an Austin Car Accident Lawyer at McMinn Law Firm for a Free Consultation
Malfunctioning traffic signals can cause confusion and increase the risk of serious intersection accidents. Drivers who fail to follow traffic laws may face legal liability if their negligence causes injuries to others.
If you were injured in an accident involving flashing traffic lights, McMinn Law Firm can help you understand your legal options. Our experienced Austin car accident lawyers can investigate your crash, determine liability, and pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
We proudly serve clients throughout Austin, TX in Travis County, as well as Salt Lake City, UT in Salt Lake County.
McMinn Law Firm – Austin, TX Office
502 W 14th St, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-0222
McMinn Law Firm – Salt Lake City, UT Office
650 S 500 W Suite 290, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
(385) 462-7630
