Flashing Lights-Do they Really Slow Traffic?”
Flashing beacons (commonly called flashers or flashing lights) are frequently requested in the belief that they will reduce vehicle speeds. Unfortunately, this is not necessarily the case. The following discussion of flashing beacons is offered in the interest of broader public understanding of what flashers can do and what factors must be considered before they should be installed. Effective Usage of Flashers A flasher is generally installed at an intersection or in conjunction with a warning sign in advance of an area requiring greater than normal care by the average driver. Flashing beacons serve a useful purpose where the flashing yellow is used to alert drivers to unusual conditions that are not readily apparent, such as: obstructions in the roadway, uncommon roadway conditions, narrow bridges, or unusual conditions hidden from the motorists view. One of the more common locations where a flasher can be used effectively is at a signalized intersection located just beyond a vertical
Related Questions
- I recently encountered a new traffic light with 4 different signals including flashing arrows in red, yellow, and green. What am I supposed to do when the light is flashing a yellow arrow?
- Are there any devices in place to slow traffic down (e.g. islands, speed humps)?
- Do Flashing Lights Really Slow Traffic?
