What should you do when you see a flashing yellow traffic signal at the next intersection? When you see a flashing yellow traffic signal at the next intersection, you should slow down as you approach and stop at the intersection if you’re uncertain.
An Arlington car accident lawyer can help you with a claim if you are injured in an accident at an intersection with a flashing light.
Slow Down as You Approach the Flashing Yellow Light
If you can see the flashing yellow light at the next intersection, that is an indication that you need to slow down and take precautions. You may not know what you are about to encounter just yet, especially if there does not seem to be an obvious problem, such as a broken-down car or a construction truck in the lane.
By slowing down, you are then able to have more time to make the right decisions about how to navigate the situation. Caution like this means that there is something that is not normal present, and until you reach that area, you will not know what that risk is. Drop your speed to no more than 10 miles per hour as you approach.
Note that a flashing yellow light is not a “slow down before you stop at a red light” type of light. That is, flashing means there is a problem and to use caution. By taking that step, you minimize the risks of accidents.
Stop at the Light Once You Reach it if You are Uncertain
When a flashing red light occurs, you must stop and assess the situation before navigating through it. You legally do not have to stop at a flashing yellow light. However, it does mean you need to slow down enough to make sure you are safe.
If there is an obstruction that you cannot see around or any type of situation where you cannot clearly see if it is safe to head into the intersection, stop fully and then decide. Always provide the right-of-way to the driver who was at the intersection first.
If the flashing yellow light is happening on both sides of the road, it is even more critical to stop or slow down so that you know who has the right-of-way through the intersection. Typically, the first to stop is the first to go, but if both stop at the same time, the driver on the right has the right to move through the intersection first.
Know Why Yellow Flashing Lights Happen
A flashing yellow light can be indicative of one or more situations that are occurring. Police officers who are responding to the scene may adjust the light to a flashing yellow light to accommodate challenging situations. Some of the reasons for flashing yellow lights include:
- There is a power outage, and the signals are not operating as they should.
- There is a reduction in the amount of traffic in the area, and police change a stoplight to a flashing yellow light.
- There is construction or an accident ahead that means you need to be cautious.
- The intersection is dangerous for some reason.
- Law enforcement believes there is an enhanced risk for some reason
In all of these situations, you need to be prepared to stop. Do not disregard a flashing yellow light as if it means nothing. It could be critical for you to slow down to protect your future health and well-being. Talk to an Arlington personal injury lawyer today.
Understand Your Rights in These Cases
A flashing yellow light is not just a warning, it is a component of traffic law. Texas law provides that when a light is flashing yellow, anyone approaching must take caution to proceed through the intersection. What happens if there is a flashing yellow light, you slow down, and the other party does not provide the right of way? In an accident like this, keep the following in mind:
- If an accident happens, pull to the side of the road. Do not leave the scene of the accident, but get out of the intersection if possible.
- Call 911. Even if there are no serious injuries yet, you should request legal presence whenever possible. That way, the police officer can document your losses and collect evidence at the scene.
- Exchange information with the other driver. This includes getting their name, contact information, and insurance information.
- Avoid stating any fault. Do not say that you were sorry for the accident or that you did not see the other driver. Keep conversations with the other driver to a minimum and instead let the police handle it.
- Take photos of the accident scene. This should include photos of the injuries you have, the damage to both vehicles, the flashing yellow lights, and the surrounding area. Use video to help capture what was happening at the time of the accident.
- Get medical care. As soon as possible after the accident, seek medical care for any and all injuries you have. This minimizes future risks to your health and also works as documentation of your losses.
Once you take these steps, follow up with your doctors and complete your treatment recommendations. This is also when you may need to hire a car accident lawyer who can help you hold the other party accountable for the losses they caused.
If you are hurt in an accident involving a car or truck that did not obey a flashing yellow light, you need an Arlington failure to yield car accident lawyer to guide you in the recovery of damages.
Know When to Get Help from an Attorney
For those who are battling injuries after an accident with a driver who did not obey the flashing yellow lights at an intersection, it is possible to file a claim with their insurance company for the losses you incurred.
To do that, work with a local, experienced Arlington car accident lawyer from The Texas Law Dog who is ready to fight for you. We don’t just bark. We bite.
