Detailed Explanation of Traffic Signal Lights
2 Answers
Here is a detailed explanation of traffic signal lights: Green light signal: The green light is a permission-to-proceed signal. According to the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law," when the green light is on, vehicles and pedestrians are allowed to proceed. However, turning vehicles must not hinder the passage of straight-moving vehicles and pedestrians. Red light signal: The red light is an absolute prohibition signal. When the red light is on, vehicles are prohibited from proceeding. Right-turning vehicles may proceed if they do not hinder the passage of other vehicles and pedestrians. The red light is a mandatory stop signal. When encountering this signal, prohibited vehicles must stop behind the stop line, and prohibited pedestrians must wait at the sidewalk. While waiting, motor vehicles must not turn off their engines, open doors, or have drivers leave their vehicles. Bicycles making left turns must not detour around the intersection, and those going straight must not use right turns to detour. Yellow light signal: When the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to proceed. The yellow light signal's meaning is between the green and red lights, having both prohibitive and permissive aspects. When the yellow light is on, it warns drivers and pedestrians that the passage time is ending and will soon switch to red. Vehicles should stop behind the stop line, and pedestrians should not enter the crosswalk. However, if a vehicle is too close to stop safely and crosses the stop line, it may continue. Pedestrians already in the crosswalk should assess oncoming traffic and either cross quickly, remain still, or retreat. Flashing warning light: This is a continuously flashing yellow light that alerts vehicles and pedestrians to proceed with caution after confirming safety. This light does not control right-of-way. Some are suspended above intersections, while others are used at night when regular traffic signals are off, flashing to remind vehicles and pedestrians to proceed carefully through the intersection. At intersections with flashing warning lights, vehicles and pedestrians must follow the principle of ensuring safety and comply with the rules for uncontrolled intersections. Directional signal light: Directional signal lights are specialized indicators for guiding the direction of motor vehicles. Different arrow directions indicate whether vehicles should go straight, turn left, or turn right. They consist of red, yellow, and green arrow patterns.
When I first started learning to drive, the traffic light rules took me a while to figure out. A red light means you must come to a complete stop—no running it—this is the most fundamental safety rule to prevent collisions at intersections. A green light allows you to proceed, but you must first ensure the safety of vehicles and pedestrians on both sides; don't assume everything is fine just because the light is green. As for the yellow light, it's a transitional signal, warning drivers that the red light is coming. If you're too close to stop safely, you may continue through; otherwise, brake promptly. Many people mistakenly treat the yellow light as a signal to speed up, often leading to rear-end collisions, which are even more dangerous in low-visibility conditions like rain or at night. I recommend that beginners practice estimating stopping distances—for example, maintaining a 60-meter safety buffer at 60 km/h—so they can react calmly when lights change. Traffic lights are like commanders on the road; obeying them protects both yourself and others.
