Traffic signals provide drivers and pedestrians instructions they need to stay safe as they drive or cross on the road. These signals have different meanings – some are meant to warn you of hazards ahead that might be difficult to see, while others are meant to guide you to your destination. Likewise, some lights are there to inform you of local regulations and practices, while others regulate traffic speed and movement.
If you’re about to start your driving lessons or you’re new to driving, it’s essential that you know these traffic signals so that you can remain safe on the road:
Flashing Red Traffic Signal
The flashing red traffic light is commonly placed at intersections, especially when the stop sign is difficult to see, or if the location requires additional emphasis. You can also find it at railroad crossings to indicate an approaching train. When you see this signal, it means that you should stop and yield the right-of-way to traffic within the intersection and proceed when safe.
Flashing Yellow Traffic Signal
The flashing yellow traffic signal means to proceed with caution. It also means to slow down because there’s an intersection ahead.
Green Arrow Signal
If the green arrow is pointed upward to the driver, you can only go straight. When it’s pointed to the right or left, you may either turn right or left. This also means you don’t need to stop if you’re traveling in the direction of the arrow, especially when it is not flashing.
Red Arrow Signal
Just like a stop signal, you are only allowed to move when the arrow turns green.
Flashing Red Arrow
A flashing red arrow is essentially a stop sign to determine if the intersection is clear. If the coast is clear, you can then proceed.
Aside from these traffic signals, there are other vital points that you should know. For one, making a right turn on a red light will depend on your state laws. In Georgia, you are allowed to make a right turn on a red at an intersection controlled by a traffic control light. However, there are states that allow for right turns on red as long as there are no posted signs that prohibit the turn. Yet, before you take that turn, you must first do a full stop in the rightmost lane with your turn signal on. If there’s a heavy flow of traffic, it would be best to wait until the light turns green.
Conclusion
Familiarizing yourself with traffic signals will help keep you and others safe on the road. This is essential, especially if you’re about to get into a driving school or if you have recently taken your driver’s test. The good news is getting around Georgia is fairly straightforward, and you don’t have to deal with some of the traffic compared to its abundance in other states.
Whenever you get behind the wheel, remember to be responsible and get familiar with road rules. If you’re about to get into a driving school, it is vital that you find a reputable one to ensure that you are educated properly. There are plenty of driving schools here in Athens, which can be overwhelming. Make sure you choose a reliable center and opt for one-on-one lessons to get the most out of it.
Athens Driving Prep is a reputable driving school in Georgia. We provide personalized driving lessons so that every driver’s specific needs are met. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help prepare you for the road!
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