What Should I Do If the Traffic Light Is Out?

Recently, our town in Michigan experienced a power outage, which naturally raised concerns about safe driving practices. When traffic lights are out, it's crucial to understand how to navigate intersections safely and responsibly.

General Traffic Light Outage Guidelines

When the traffic light goes out, it should be treated as a 4-way stop. This means that drivers approaching the intersection must come to a complete stop and yield to other vehicles and pedestrians. The first car to arrive at the intersection should have the right of way to proceed, while subsequent cars should follow the same principle.

Handling Different Traffic Light Conditions

In addition to a completely out traffic light, there are other scenarios to consider:

Flashing Traffic Light: Treat a flashing traffic light as you would a stop sign. If the light is red, treat it as a stop sign and come to a complete stop before proceeding. If the light is yellow, proceed with caution, as it may be signaling a need for a complete stop. Completely Out Traffic Light: Treat the intersection like a 4-way stop. All drivers should come to a complete stop and yield to traffic and pedestrians, following the rule that the first car to stop gets the right of way.

Ensuring Safety and Reporting Malfunctioning Traffic Lights

Safe driving during a traffic light outage is not only about following rules but also about being aware of your surroundings. Always watch for oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. If you're driving in a residential area or a busy intersection where visibility is limited, it's essential to proceed with extra caution.

In the United States, if there are multiple cars waiting to pass through the intersection, the right-most car generally has the first right of way. However, if there is evidence that someone is directing traffic, follow their instructions to ensure safety.

After ensuring your own safety, it's crucial to report the malfunctioning traffic light to the appropriate authorities. You can do this by calling the non-emergency number of your local police department. Make sure to include the location and the nature of the problem in your call. Additionally, save the contact information for your phone's contacts so you can easily reach out in the future.

Remember, traffic lights don't “call home” when they stop working, so public awareness and timely reporting can significantly impact safety during outages.

In conclusion, understanding how to handle traffic light outages can save lives and prevent accidents. By treating intersections as 4-way stops and being cautious, drivers can maintain safety and contribute positively to the overall traffic flow, even in the absence of traffic signals.