Ever pull up to an intersection and see lights flashing instead of the usual steady green, yellow, or red? It can be confusing! Flashing lights mean something’s different with the normal traffic flow, and you need to know exactly what to do to stay safe and avoid a wreck.
If you get into a collision at one of these intersections, The Thumbs Up Guys are your South Carolina auto accident lawyers. We’ll help figure out who’s at fault and get you compensation for your injuries.
What Do Flashing Traffic Lights Mean in South Carolina?
Flashing traffic lights are displayed when signals are either not working properly or during slow times, like late at night. Here’s the breakdown of what each flashing light means, straight from South Carolina law (SC Statutes 56-5-1000 and 56-9-970):
- Flashing Red Lights:
- Action: This is just like a STOP sign. You MUST come to a complete stop at the white line, crosswalk, or before you enter the intersection.
- Proceeding: After a full stop, look around. When it’s clear and safe, you can go. Make sure to yield to any other cars or people already in the intersection. You don’t have to wait for the light to change green – once you stop and it’s safe, you’re good to go.
- When You See Them: Usually when signals are broken or in the middle of the night.
- Flashing Yellow Lights:
- Action: This means CAUTION! You don’t have to stop, but you need to slow down significantly and be ready to stop if you need to.
- Right-of-Way: Usually, if you have a flashing yellow, the cross-traffic will have a flashing red (meaning they have to stop). But always be ready for anything!
- When You See Them: Often when signals are malfunctioning or during late-night hours.
- Flashing Green Lights:
- Heads Up! You won’t see these in the U.S. They’re used in places like Canada for pedestrian-activated signals.
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Flashing Arrows for Turns: What’s the Deal?
Turn lane arrows have their own set of rules when they’re flashing:
- Steady Red Arrow:
- Action: NO TURN. Wait until it changes to a green arrow or flashing yellow arrow.
- Steady Yellow Arrow:
- Action: The light’s about to turn red. If you can stop safely, do it. If you’re already in the intersection or too close to stop, proceed with caution.
- Flashing Yellow Arrow:
- Action: You CAN make the turn, but only when it’s safe. You MUST yield to cars coming straight and to people walking – they have the right-of-way.
- Steady Green Arrow:
- Action: You’ve got the right-of-way for that turn. Still, keep an eye out for anyone in the crosswalk.
What If Traffic Lights Are Completely Out?
Sometimes lights aren’t just flashing, they’re dead. If you roll up to an intersection in South Carolina and the lights are out or acting out of the ordinary, here’s what to do:
- Listen to the Officer: If a cop is there directing traffic, their signals are the law. Follow what they say!
- Treat It Like a 4-Way Stop: If no officer is around, this is your rule of thumb.
- Come to a complete stop.
- The first car to arrive goes first.
- If two cars get there at the same time, the car on your right has the right-of-way.
- Always double-check that the intersection is clear before you move.
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What Happens When Someone Blows Through a Traffic Light?
Ignoring traffic signals is a huge no-no and a common cause of serious accidents. If a driver runs a flashing red, speeds through a flashing yellow, or just ignores a dead intersection and causes a crash, they can be held responsible for all the damage and injuries.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident because another driver didn’t follow the rules, The Thumbs Up Guys can help you get compensated. We’ll:
- Investigate Your Crash: We’ll dig deep to gather all the evidence – witness statements, traffic camera footage, anything that proves who messed up.
- Calculate Your Losses: We’ll make sure to account for everything: medical bills, lost wages, the pain and suffering, and even emotional trauma.
- Fight for Your Settlement: We’ll deal with the insurance companies to make sure you get a fair deal that covers everything you’ve been through.
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Got Hurt in a Car Accident? Get Help from The Thumbs Up Guys!
When someone else’s bad driving causes you harm, you’ve got rights. Our auto accident attorneys have been helping South Carolina folks get what they’re owed for years.
Even if you’re not sure what your next steps are, contact us today for a free case evaluation. We’ll lay out your options and work to get you the compensation you deserve.
Call or text (843) 380-8350 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
