Have you Seen the New Turn Signals?

The people responsible for coordinating traffic flow through a city are always juggling the timing of lights. Just a half second change in a light’s timing can affect traffic throughout the city. The goal is to find the most efficient way to move people through an area without causing accidents.

A new type of light system for left hand turns is cropping up around Atlanta. It is supposed to make these turns easier, but many drivers are confused by it. The old light system would alternate between a red left turn arrow and a green left turn arrow. The problem with this kind of light is that many people try to rush the light.

Depending on the circumstances, that can leave a turning driver in the middle of the intersection when the light turns red. This can cause accidents. The replacement light is a flashing yellow one with a yield sign next to it. Drivers are supposed to observe the incoming traffic and wait for a clear opening to make a safe left.

There have been reports of drivers halting at the lights and waiting in confusion for the light to turn green or red. This hesitation could also cause an accident. City officials believe that in the long run people will learn how to deal with the new light system. This type of light is getting nationwide attention after a federal road study said that this kind of light is safer.

Any driver approaching something unfamiliar could start driving in an unsafe manner due to confusion. Is it the fault of the driver or the fault of the city for posting unclear directions? Find out by talking with a personal injury lawyer like the ones at John Foy & Associates.