October 29, 2024 | Car Accidents
Handling the situation carefully and responsibly is essential when approaching an intersection with flashing lights. Knowing the correct actions is vital, whether you’re a new driver or someone with years of experience on the road.
Flashing lights at intersections are usually there to control the flow of traffic and enhance safety in situations where standard traffic signals might be less effective. Below, we explain what you should do when encountering these signals in South Carolina.
Understanding Flashing Lights At an Intersection
First, let’s understand what these flashing lights mean. According to the South Carolina Department of Transportation, the most common types of flashing lights at intersections are yellow/orange and red lights. Each color has a different meaning:
Flashing Yellow Light
This means you should proceed with caution. Unlike a steady yellow light that typically indicates that a signal is about to turn red, a flashing yellow light warns you to be alert and watchful.
Flashing Red Light
This acts like a stop sign. You should come to a complete stop, check for oncoming traffic or pedestrians, and proceed only when it is safe.
Steps To Follow At a Flashing Yellow Light
As you approach a flashing yellow light, slow down for more time for decision-making. It’s essential to be prepared for any sudden changes in the situation. Look around for other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists who might also be crossing the intersection. Remember, they might not be as aware as you.
You can proceed once you’ve ensured the intersection is safe. Keep your speed steady and be ready to react if something unexpected happens.
Steps To Follow At a Flashing Red Light
Treat a flashing red light like a stop sign. Stop completely behind the crosswalk or the designated line at the intersection. Check all directions for oncoming traffic or pedestrians. It’s also important to be aware of those who might try to rush through the intersection.
If other vehicles or pedestrians arrive at the intersection before you, let them go first. Respecting the right-of-way rules is crucial. You can move forward once the intersection is clear. Continue to be aware of your surroundings as you cross.
Common Reasons For Intersections With Flashing Lights
There are several reasons why you may approach an intersection with flashing lights, including:
Power Outages
Sometimes, traffic lights might flash due to a power outage. Intersections in this situation follow the same rules as a four-way stop, i.e., treat all as flashing red.
School Zones
Flashing yellow lights in school zones usually means you should slow down to a specific speed, often lower than the standard limit. Always be extra cautious for children crossing.
Construction Zones
Flashing lights in these areas also alert drivers, signaling a need to reduce speed and pay attention to construction workers or alterations to the road.
Why It’s Important To Follow These Rules
Ignoring or misunderstanding these signals can lead to car accidents, resulting in serious injuries or worse. Intersections are common sites for collisions because they involve multiple drivers with potentially conflicting objectives. Therefore, understanding and respecting flashing light signals is crucial for your safety and others on the road.
What To Do After an Intersection Accident
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, accidents happen. If you’re involved in an accident at an intersection, here’s what you should do:
- Check for injuries
- Move to safety
- Call the police
- Exchange information
- Document everything
- Seek legal help if necessary
Being informed and prepared for flashing light situations can significantly increase road safety. However, if you find yourself in a collision, it is always wise to contact experienced professionals for comprehensive guidance or legal advice.
Contact a South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer at Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers Today
For more information, contact the car accident law firm of Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation. We have five convenient locations in South Carolina: Columbia, Lexington, Orangeburg, and Blythewood.
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Columbia, SC
1333 Main St #510,
Columbia, SC 29201
(803) 573-0869
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Columbia, SC.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 34.0036663,-81.0346429
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Lexington, SC
5465 Sunset Blvd Suite B,
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 721-4241
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Lexington, SC.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 33.9981412,-81.2202483
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Orangeburg, SC
161 Elliott St SE Suite B,
Orangeburg, SC 29115
(803) 884-2053
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Orangeburg, SC.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 33.4913915,-80.8608485
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Blythewood, SC
749-2 University Village Dr,
Blythewood, SC 29016
(803) 866-5190
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Blythewood, SC.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 34.2165616,-80.9866654
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Columbiana Dr
380 Columbiana Dr
Columbia, SC 29212
(803) 866-5522
Our firm is located near you. We have a secondary office in Columbia, SC.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 34.0857948,-81.1613165
