What to Do at an Intersection with Flashing Lights 

Driving through intersections with flashing lights can be confusing and even dangerous if you’re not sure what to do. Whether it’s a flashing red light, yellow light, or some other signal, it’s important to understand the rules to keep yourself and others safe on the road. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of what to do at an intersection with flashing lights and how to handle each situation.

Understanding Flashing Lights at Intersections

When you approach an intersection with flashing lights, it’s a signal that you need to pay extra attention. Flashing lights are typically used to control traffic flow or indicate an emergency. The color of the flashing light will tell you how to react.

What to Do When You See a Flashing Red Light

Flashing red lights are the most common at intersections. When you see one, you must treat it like a stop sign. 

Here’s what to do:

• Stop Completely: Come to a full stop at the stop line or crosswalk. Do not roll through the intersection.
• Look for Other Drivers and Pedestrians: After stopping, check for any vehicles that might be crossing or pedestrians trying to cross the street.
• Proceed Only When Safe: Only move forward when you have a clear path and it is safe to do so. Yield to other vehicles and pedestrians who have the right of way.

It’s important to remember that ignoring flashing red lights could lead to accidents or traffic violations. Always stop and wait until it’s your turn to move.

What to Do When You See a Flashing Yellow Light

Flashing yellow lights are often used to warn drivers to slow down and approach an intersection cautiously. 

Here’s how to react:

• Slow Down: Start reducing your speed as you approach the intersection.
• Look for Potential Hazards: Be aware of any vehicles turning or pedestrians crossing the street.
• Proceed with Caution: After slowing down, proceed through the intersection carefully, but don’t stop unless it’s absolutely necessary.

Remember, a flashing yellow light does not require a full stop. It’s simply a reminder to be extra careful.

What to Do When You See a Flashing Yellow Arrow

A flashing yellow arrow usually appears when you’re turning left at an intersection. This light means you can turn left, but you need to yield to other traffic first. 

Here’s how to handle it:

• Yield to Oncoming Traffic: Before turning left, check for any oncoming vehicles or cyclists. Make sure the path is clear.
• Yield to Pedestrians: Don’t forget to watch for pedestrians crossing the road, especially when turning left.
• Turn When Safe: Once it’s clear, make your turn.

Always exercise caution when turning left with a flashing yellow arrow. You are allowed to turn, but you must ensure the intersection is clear before proceeding

Importance of Flashing Lights for Safety

Flashing lights are important because they help manage traffic in busy or potentially hazardous areas. They alert drivers to slow down, stop, or proceed with caution, reducing the risk of car accidents. Understanding and obeying flashing traffic lights ensures that everyone on the road is safer.

Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys in Portland at Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers

If you’ve been in an accident at an intersection with flashing lights in Portland, OR, it’s important to understand your rights. You may be entitled to compensation for someone else’s negligence if they failed to follow the rules regarding flashing lights at an intersection. Contact an experienced attorney for a free consultation to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Please contact our Portland car accident lawyers at Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve all throughout Multnomah County in Oregon. Visit our office at:

Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers
101 SW Main St. #1905
Portland, OR, 97204
(503) 773-3333
Hours: Open 24/7