December 10, 2024 | Chicago Personal Injury Blog
Flashing lights at an intersection frequently stump drivers who are unsure of how to proceed. Depending on the type of light and other factors, one of many moves may be called for. In every case, knowing what to do when you approach flashing lights at an intersection will help protect you and others from an accident.
Flashing Lights In General
In traffic, lights are usually solid. However, circumstances arise when a driver might encounter a flashing light. In these situations, drivers should be aware that the flashing indicates a change in how drivers are to react to a certain light color. In other words, a flashing light requires different action than a solid light.
Flashing Red Lights
A red light at an intersection requires a driver to engage in a full-vehicle stop. The stop must be executed before the driver enters the intersection, meaning no part of their vehicle should protrude into the intersection or crosswalk when a red light shows.
When a driver encounters a flashing red light, the rules are different. First, a stop is indeed called for with a red flashing light. However, once a driver’s vehicle stops moving, they must behave as if they are at a four-way stop.
Drivers should yield to the vehicle that stopped at the intersection first and proceed in the order of arrival. If multiple cars arrive at the same time, the car on the right has the right of way. When two drivers arrive simultaneously on opposite sides of the intersection, a driver going straight or turning right has the right of way over a driver turning left.
Flashing Yellow Lights
A solid yellow light is a type of warning light. It informs drivers that a light is about to change to red. Drivers approaching an intersection on a yellow light can proceed normally but are on notice that a red light is imminent.
When a yellow light is flashing, however, the light may not turn red at all. Instead, it remains flashing yellow. Drivers approaching a signal such as this must yield to oncoming traffic. Depending on the situation, a driver may be permitted to continue forward or execute a left turn (with or without an arrow, depending on the circumstances) with caution.
What To Do After An Intersection Accident
If you happen to be involved in an intersection accident involving flashing lights, never panic or admit liability. Instead, obey the law and exchange information with the other driver. You should also file an accident report within 10 days if injuries or property damage exceed $1,500.
Because accident scenes are typically chaotic, drivers should do whatever they can to remain calm. Drivers should also watch their words. A simple “I am sorry” can be used as evidence of negligence and liability.
Drivers should also ensure that they get to a safe place after the accident and before engaging in any other accident business. This helps avoid:
- Secondary accidents
- Traffic jams
- Further injury
When possible, drivers should move their vehicles out of traffic’s way or set out flares or reflectors to warn other drivers of the accident.
Finally, in cases involving more than a simple fender bender, drivers are encouraged to contact an experienced car accident attorney for experienced and effective representation. Getting the compensation one deserves typically requires the services of a seasoned car accident lawyer.
Knowledge Means Safety
Flashing lights at an intersection are but one of many traffic situations that cause confusion for drivers. Taking the time to learn whatever rules you are unsure about will help keep you and others safe from a traffic accident. Remember that the more you know about how to proceed in traffic, the safer you and others will be.
Contact our Personal Injury Law Firm at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, IL, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the expert guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
We serve Cook County and its surrounding areas:
Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
875 N Dearborn St 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 635-5400