Mark Casto | January 30, 2025 | Car Accident Lawyer Near Columbus Georgia
Traffic signals usually work in a predictable pattern, but drivers sometimes encounter flashing lights that can cause confusion. In 2022, Columbus experienced 25 fatal accidents. Not knowing how to respond when traffic lights start flashing could lead to one of these deadly wrecks, as intersection crashes remain one of the most common types of accidents.
The Different Types Of Flashing Lights
When approaching an intersection with flashing lights, the color of the light determines the required action. According to the Georgia Driver’s Manual, different colored flashing lights have specific meanings that every driver must understand and follow precisely.
What Does A Flashing Red Light Mean?
A flashing red light functions like a stop sign. Drivers must come to a complete stop at a clearly marked stop line. If there’s no stop line, stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. In the absence of a crosswalk, stop at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where you have a clear view of approaching traffic.
This type of signal often appears during power outages or late at night when traffic is light. When stopping at a flashing red light, drivers should:
- Come to a complete stop, not just a rolling slowdown
- Check all directions for other vehicles and pedestrians
- Wait for cross traffic to clear completely
- Yield to any emergency vehicles
Following these steps helps ensure everyone’s safety at the intersection.
What Does A Flashing Yellow Light Mean?
At an intersection, a flashing yellow light means drivers should slow down and proceed with caution. A complete stop isn’t required unless it’s necessary to avoid a hazard, but drivers must exercise significant care. At a flashing yellow light, you should:
- Reduce speed significantly when approaching the intersection
- Watch for crossing pedestrians and vehicles
- Be prepared to stop if necessary
- Yield to emergency vehicles
- Scan all directions for potential hazards
These precautions can prevent dangerous situations from developing at the intersection.
Common Causes Of Flashing Traffic Signals
Traffic signals usually switch to flashing mode for several reasons, including the following:
- Power outages or electrical system problems
- Scheduled maintenance or testing
- Emergency situations requiring traffic pattern changes
- Late-night traffic control in low-volume periods
- Special events or road work requiring modified traffic flow
Knowing these causes helps drivers anticipate and respond appropriately to flashing signals.
Special Considerations For Adverse Weather
During storms or severe weather, flashing lights may become more common due to power fluctuations. Drivers should exercise extra caution and treat malfunctioning signals as four-way stops, especially when dealing with potential weather-related hazards. The FHA emphasizes that proper response to flashing signals significantly reduces the risk of intersection crashes.
Right-Of-Way Rules With Flashing Lights
When multiple vehicles arrive at an intersection with flashing lights, these standard right-of-way rules apply consistently:
- At flashing red lights, the first vehicle to stop has the right of way
- Vehicles on the right have priority when two vehicles arrive simultaneously
- All vehicles must yield to emergency vehicles and pedestrians
- Commercial trucks need extra consideration due to their size and stopping distance
These rules ensure orderly and safe passage through the intersection for all vehicles.
Safety First At Every Intersection
Even experienced drivers may not fully understand what to do when they encounter flashing lights. But knowing why they happen and how to navigate them is important for road safety. To avoid incidents, never assume other motorists know what to do. Also, remember to stay focused, use turn signals, and maintain a safe following distance.
Contact the Columbus Car Accident Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus car accident lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808
Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
