traffic light#Rules

{{Main|History of traffic lights}}

In December 1868, the first system of traffic signals, which was a semaphore traffic signal, was installed as a way to replace police officer control of vehicular traffic outside the Houses of Parliament in London. This system exploded on 2 January 1869 and was taken down. This early traffic signal led to other parts of the world implementing similar traffic signal systems. In the first two decades of the 20th century, semaphore traffic signals like the one in London were in use all over the United States. These traffic signals were controlled by a traffic officer who changed the commands on the signal to direct traffic.{{sfnp|Sessions|1971|p=22}}

In 1912, the first electric traffic light was developed by Lester Wire, a policeman in Salt Lake City, Utah.{{cite web |last=Bellis |first=Mary |date=5 February 1952 |title=The History of Roads and Asphalt |url=http://theinventors.org/library/inventors/blasphalt.htm |website=theinventors.org }} In August 1914, it was installed by the American Traffic Signal Company on the corner of East 105th Street and Euclid Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio.{{sfnp|Sessions|1971|pp=27–28}}{{cite journal |date=August 1914 |title=New Traffic Signal Installed |journal=The Motorist |publisher=Ken Pub. Co |pages=28–29}}{{Cite web |title=Traffic signals: A brief history |website=Washington State Magazine |publisher=Washington State University |first1=Larry |last1=Clark |date=Fall 2019 |url=https://magazine.wsu.edu/web-extra/traffic-signals-a-brief-history/ |access-date=19 December 2021 |language=en-US}} In 1920, the first four-way, three-colour traffic light was created by William Potts in Detroit, Michigan . His design was the first to include an amber 'caution' light along with red and green lights. Potts was Superintendent of Signals for the Police Department of Detroit. In 1921, he installed automatic four-way, three-colour traffic lights in 15 towers across Detroit.{{cite journal |last=Pollard |first=Justin |date=September 2008 |doi-access=free |url=https://digital-library.theiet.org/content/journals/10.1049/et_20081518 |via=IET Digital Library |title=The Eccentric Engineer: The History of Traffic Lights Is Full of Twists and Turns |journal=Engineering and Technology |volume=3 |issue=15 |page=93 |doi=10.1049/et:20081518 |doi-broken-date=7 December 2024 }}{{cite web |url=https://www.thehenryford.org/collections-and-research/digital-collections/artifact/227457/#slide=gs-225140 |title=First Tri-Color, Four-Directional Traffic Signal, 1920 |website=The Henry Ford |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240312133450/https://www.thehenryford.org/collections-and-research/digital-collections/artifact/227457/#slide=gs-225140 |archive-date= Mar 12, 2024 }}{{cite web |url=http://large.stanford.edu/courses/2011/ph240/miller1/docs/moyer/ |title=Mr. 'Trafficlight' |date=March 1947 |first1=Sheldon |last1=Moyer |work=Motor News |via=large.stanford.edu |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230913014058/http://large.stanford.edu/courses/2011/ph240/miller1/docs/moyer/ |archive-date= Sep 13, 2023 }}

By 1922, traffic towers were beginning to be controlled by automatic timers more widely. The main advantage of the use of the timer was that it saved cities money by replacing traffic officers. New York City was able to reassign all but 500 of its 6,000 officers working on the traffic squad, saving the city $12,500,000.{{sfnp|McShane|1999|p=385}}

In 1923, Garrett Morgan patented a design of a manually operated three-way traffic light with moving arms.{{cite web |url=https://patents.google.com/patent/US1475024A/en |title=US Patent: US1475024A 'Traffic signal' (1923) |website=patents.google}}

The control of traffic lights changed with the rise of computers in America in the 1950s. One of the best historical examples of computerized control of lights was in Denver in 1952. In 1967, Toronto was the first to use more advanced computers that were better at vehicle detection.{{sfnp|Sessions|1971|p=141}} The computers maintained control over 159 signals in Toronto through telephone lines.{{sfnp|Sessions|1971|p=143}}

File:Traffic lights.jpg

File:Sumburgh Airport Barrier.webm with Sumburgh Airport's runway in Shetland. The movable barrier closes when an aircraft lands or takes off.]] File:Japanese signal aokibashi.jpgA set of lights, known as a signal head,[https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/851465/dft-traffic-signs-manual-chapter-6.pdf Traffic Signs Manual – Chapter 6: Traffic Control]. Department for Transport, Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland), Transport Scotland and Welsh Government. Accessed: 18 December 2021.{{Rp|location=3.2.4}} may have one, two, three, or more aspects. The most common signal type has three aspects facing the oncoming traffic: red on top, amber (yellow) below, and green below that. Additional aspects may be fitted to the signal, usually to indicate specific restrictions or filter movements.

The 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals Chapter III provides international standards for the setup of traffic signal operations. Not all states have ratified the convention. A three-colour signal head should have three non-flashing lights which are red, amber, and green, arranged either horizontally (on the side opposite to the direction of traffic){{clarify|date=May 2025}} or vertically (with red on top). A two-colour signal head may be used in temporary operation and consists of red and green non-flashing lights. In both cases, all lights should be circular or arrow-shaped. Permissible signals for regulating vehicle traffic (other than public transport vehicles) are outlined in Article 23:

Green arrows are added to signals to indicate that traffic can proceed in a particular direction while the main lights for that approach are red, or that traffic can only proceed in one particular direction. Alternatively, when combined with another green signal, they may indicate that turning traffic has priority over oncoming traffic (known as a "filter arrow").{{Rp|location=3.5}} Flashing amber arrows typically indicate that road users must give way (to other drivers and pedestrians) before making a movement in the direction of the arrow. These are used because they are safer, cause less delay, and are more flexible. Flashing amber arrows will normally be located below the solid amber.{{Cite web |title=Flashing Yellow Arrow Traffic Signals – Traffic Engineering – MnDOT |url=https://www.dot.state.mn.us/trafficeng/signals/flashingyellowarrow.html |access-date=18 December 2021 |website=www.dot.state.mn.us}}

Arrow aspects may be used to permit certain movements or convey other messages to road users. A green arrow may display to require drivers to turn in a particular direction only or to allow drivers to continue in a particular direction when the signal is red.{{Rp|location=3.5}} Generally, a green phase is illuminated at the beginning of the green phase (a "leading turn") or at the end of the green phase (a "lagging turn").{{Citation needed|date=December 2021}} An 'indicative arrow' may be displayed alongside a green light. This indicates to drivers that oncoming traffic is stopped, such that they do not need to give way to that traffic when turning across it. As right-turning traffic (left-side drive) or left-turning traffic (right-side drive) does not normally have priority, this arrow is used to allow turning traffic to clear before the next phase begins.{{Rp|location=3.5}}

Some variations of this setup exist. One version is a horizontal bar with five lights – the green and amber arrows are located between the standard green and amber lights. A vertical five-light bar holds the arrows underneath the standard green light. In this arrangement, the amber arrow is sometimes omitted, leaving only the green arrow below the steady green light, or possibly an LED-based device capable of showing both green and amber arrows within a single lamp housing.{{Cite web |title=MUTCD 11th Edition - Part 4 |url=https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/11th_Edition/part4.pdf |access-date=13 December 2024 |website=Federal Highway Administration}}

A third type is known as a "doghouse" or "cluster head" – a vertical column with the two normal lights is on the right side of the signal, a vertical column with the two arrows is located on the left, and the normal red signal is in the middle above the two columns. Cluster signals in Australia and New Zealand use six signals, the sixth being a red arrow that can operate separately from the standard red light.{{Citation needed|date=December 2021}}

In a fourth type, sometimes seen at intersections in Ontario and Quebec, Canada, there is no dedicated left-turn lamp per se.{{cite web |title=RoadSense for Drivers – Signs, Signals and Road Markings |url=http://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/Getting-licensed/drivers3.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022032056/http://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/Getting-licensed/drivers3.pdf |archive-date=22 October 2013}} Accessed: 25 March 2014{{Cite book |title=Ontario Traffic Manual Book 12: Traffic Signals. |publisher=Ministry of Transportation of Ontario |year=2012 |pages=55}} Instead, the normal green lamp flashes rapidly, indicating permission to go straight as well as make a left turn in front of opposing traffic, which is being held by a steady red lamp. This "advance green", or flashing green can be somewhat startling and confusing to drivers not familiar with this system. This can cause confusion amongst visitors to British Columbia, where a flashing green signal denotes a pedestrian-controlled crosswalk.{{Cite news |last=Tchir |first=Jason |date=June 23, 2015 |title=Why B.C.’s flashing green lights don’t mean the same thing as those in Ontario |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/culture/commuting/why-bcs-flashing-green-lights-dont-mean-the-same-thing-as-those-in-ontario/article25066266/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241214013728/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/culture/commuting/why-bcs-flashing-green-lights-dont-mean-the-same-thing-as-those-in-ontario/article25066266/ |archive-date=December 14, 2024 |access-date=April 21, 2025 |work=The Globe and Mail}} For this reason, Ontario is phasing out the use of flashing green signals and instead replacing them with arrows.{{cite web |title=RoadSense for Drivers – Signs, Signals and Road Markings |url=http://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/Getting-licensed/drivers3.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022032056/http://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/Getting-licensed/drivers3.pdf |archive-date=22 October 2013}} Accessed: 25 March 2014{{Cite book |title=Ontario Traffic Manual Book 12: Traffic Signals. |publisher=Ministry of Transportation of Ontario |year=2012 |pages=55}}

Popular in Vietnam and China, countdown lights are additional lights installed next to, or above or below, the main signal lights. The countdown light is displayed by a countdown number with different colors, usually red, yellow, green, matching the color of the light on. When the light counts to "0" (or 1), the main light color immediately changes.

Countdown lights may have zeros in the tens or none, some countdown lights may flash when getting ready to zero. Yellow lights can have countdown lights, but most lights do not. Usually the countdown light has 2 digits, in case the time of the main light (usually the red light, rarely the green light) is longer than 100 seconds, depending on the type of light, the following possibilities may occur:

1. Lights have not counted down, when 99 seconds are left, start counting. During the standby time, the light may be displayed as "99", "00", "--" or not displayed.
2. Last 2 digits count light of the timeout (the counter light is 15 while the time is 115 seconds, there are some types of lights that count as "-9" or "9-" when the time is 109 seconds)
3. Tens digit on the displayer becomes a letter. Displaying A0 for 100 seconds, B0 for 110 seconds, so forth.
4. Displaying only last 2 digits but with flashing to indicate it's more than 100.

File:CountDownTrafficLight.gif

In South Korea, the yellow light dilemma zone is not legally recognized. In other words, when the yellow light is on, traffic may not pass the stop line or enter the intersection, even if the traffic cannot safely stop when the light shows.

In May 2024, this was reaffirmed by the Supreme Court of Korea ,{{cite web|title=Supreme Court rules that driver should stop when yellow light turns on even if car is expected to stop in intersection|url=https://english.khan.co.kr/khan_art_view.html?artid=202405141817347&code=710100|editor=The Kyunghyang Shinmun|date=2024-05-14}}{{cite web|language=ko|script-title=ko:'갈까 말까' 딜레마존…"안 겪어보면 몰라" 판결에 분통 [사실은]|url=https://news.sbs.co.kr/news/endPage.do?news_id=N1007656713|editor=SBS|date=2024-05-22}} for a case where the driver was speeding at 62 km/h in a street limited up to 40 km/h, {{#expr: ((62/40)-1)*100 round 0}} % higher than the allowed speed.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-13 |title=The Supreme Court ruled that if a yellow light is turned on at the traffic light just before enterin.. - MK |url=https://www.mk.co.kr/en/society/11014731 |access-date=2024-10-11 |website=Maeil Business Newspaper |language=en}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=The English version of this website uses automatic machine translation; see WP:KO/RS|date=November 2024}}

Criticism in South Korea says that this is unrealistic and unreasonable. This can cause multiple collisions due to sudden braking.

In 2016, when speed limit was up to 60 km/h, proposed alternatives to this kind of collision were only roundabouts, speed compliance increase and speed practice reduction or elderly zones are also proposed solutions.https://www.itf-oecd.org/sites/default/files/docs/halving-road-deaths-korea.pdf

Without an all-red phase, cross-turning traffic may be caught in a yellow trap. When the signal turns yellow, a turning driver may assume oncoming traffic will stop and a crash may result. For this reason, the US bans sequences that may cause a yellow trap.{{Cite web |title=Frequently Asked Questions – Part 4 Highway Traffic Signals – FHWA MUTCD |url=https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/knowledge/faqs/faq_part4.htm#tcsfq3 |access-date=18 December 2021 |website=Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)}} This can also happen when emergency vehicles or railroads preempt normal signal operation.

{{cite web |date=7 January 2015 |title=The Flashing Yellow Arrow and the Yellow Trap |url=https://streets.mn/2015/01/07/the-flashing-yellow-arrow-and-the-yellow-trap/ |access-date=3 April 2019}} In the United States, signs reading "Oncoming traffic has extended green" or "Oncoming traffic may have extended green" must be posted at intersections where the "yellow trap" condition exists.{{cite web |title=FHWA – MUTCD – 2003 Edition Revision 1 Chapter 4D |url=https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/htm/2003r1r2/part4/part4d.htm#section4D05 |access-date=19 May 2009 |publisher=Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)}}{{cite web |title=FHWA – MUTCD – 2003 Edition Revision 1 Chapter 2C |url=https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/htm/2003r1r2/part2/part2c.htm#section2C39 |access-date=19 May 2009 |publisher=Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)}}

{{Main|Variations in traffic light operation}}The United States is not party to the Vienna Convention; rather, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) outlines correct operation in that country. In the US, a single signal head may have three, four, or five aspects. A single aspect green arrow may be displayed to indicate a continuous movement. The signals must be arranged red, amber, and green vertically (top to bottom) or horizontally (left to right).2009. [https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/2009r1r2/part4.pdf Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways: Chapter 4]. US Federal Highway Administration. URL Accessed: 7 January 2022. In the US, a single-aspect flashing amber signal can be used to raise attention to a warning sign and a single-aspect flashing red signal can be used to raise attention to a "stop", "do not enter", or "wrong way" sign. Flashing red or amber lights, known as intersection control beacons, are used to reinforce stop signs at intersections.{{cite book |title=Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices |title-link=Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices |date=2009 |publisher=Federal Highway Administration |chapter=Section 4L.02 Intersection Control Beacon |chapter-url=https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/htm/2009/part4/part4l.htm#section4L02}} The MUTCD specifies the following vehicular signals:

In the Canadian province of Quebec and the Maritime provinces, lights are often arranged horizontally, but each aspect is a different shape: red is a square (larger than the normal circle) and usually in pairs at either end of the fixture, amber is a diamond, and green is a circle. In many southern and southwestern U.S. states, most traffic signals are similarly horizontal in order to ease wind resistance during storms and hurricanes.{{cite web|title=Traffic Signals|url=http://cityofcarrollton.com/index.aspx?page=259|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100113150357/http://cityofcarrollton.com/index.aspx?page=259|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 January 2010|website=Carrollton Texas|access-date=12 July 2014}}

Japanese traffic signals mostly follow the same rule except that the green "go" signals are referred to as 青 (ao), typically translated as "blue", reflecting a historical change in the Japanese language. As a result, Japanese officials decreed in 1973 that the "go" light should be changed to the bluest possible shade of green, bringing the name more in line with the color without violating the international "green means go" rule.{{cite news|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/life/2013/02/25/language/the-japanese-traffic-light-blues-stop-on-red-go-on-what/#.WRmAuuWGNPZ|title=The Japanese traffic light blues: Stop on red, go on what|first=Peter|last=Backhaus|date=25 February 2013|work=The Japan Times|access-date=14 July 2017}}

In the UK, normal traffic lights follow this sequence:{{cite web|url=http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2016/362/schedule/14/made|title=The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016|date=2016|publisher=The National Archives|website=legislation.gov.uk|access-date=14 July 2017}}

• Red – Stop, do not proceed.
• Red and amber – Get ready to proceed, but do not proceed yet.
• Green – Proceed if the intersection or crossing is clear; vehicles are not allowed to block the intersection or crossing.
• Amber – Stop, unless it is unsafe to do so.

A speed sign is a special traffic light, variable traffic sign, or variable-message sign giving drivers a recommended speed to approach the next traffic light in its green phase{{Cite book|author=Forschungsgesellschaft für Straßen- und Verkehrswesen|title=Begriffsbestimmungen, Teil: Verkehrsplanung, Straßenentwurf und Straßenbetrieb|publisher=FGSV Verlag|year=2000|pages=81}} and avoid a stop due to reaching the intersection when lights are red.{{Cite book|author=Andreas Richter|title=Geschwindigkeitsvorgabe an Lichtsignalanlagen|publisher=DUV|year=2005|isbn=3-8244-0828-7|pages=33–34}}{{efn|Not completely correct: a variable speed sign is not solely used for the purpose of slowing the speed of motorists approaching an intersection. They are also used on freeways where the maximum safe speed is dependent on the conditions of the roadway (i.e. weather, falling rocks, risk of wildlife, etc.), such as in British Columbia, Canada.{{Clarify|reason=See note|date=July 2020}}}}

{{Further|Pedestrian crossing}}Pedestrian signals are used to inform pedestrians when to cross a road. Most pedestrian signal heads will have two lights: a 'walk' light (normally a walking human figure, typically coloured green or white) and a 'don't walk' light (normally either a red or orange man figure or a hand), though other variations exist.{{Cite web|date=25 December 2011|title=Pedestrian Signals|url=https://www.sfbetterstreets.org/find-project-types/pedestrian-safety-and-traffic-calming/pedestrian-signals/|access-date=18 December 2021|website=SF Better Streets|language=en-US}}

File:Traffic light (animation).gif, Slovenia]]

Where pedestrians need to cross the road between junctions, a signal-controlled crossing may be provided as an alternative to a zebra crossing or uncontrolled crossing. Traffic lights are normally used at crossings where vehicle speeds are high, where either vehicle or pedestrian flows are high or near signalised junctions.{{Rp|location=c.18}} In the UK, this type of crossing is called a pelican crossing. More modern iterations are puffin and pedex crossings. In the UK, these crossings normally need at least four traffic signals, which are of a regular type (red, amber, and green), two facing in each direction. Pedestrians are provided with push buttons and pedestrian signals, consisting of a red and green man. Farside signals are located across the crossing, while nearside signals are located below the traffic lights, facing in the direction of oncoming traffic.{{Rp|location=c.18}}

A HAWK beacon is a special type of traffic used in the US at mid-block crossings. These consist of two red signals above a single amber signal. The beacon is unlit until a pedestrian pushes the cross button. Then an amber light will show, followed by both red lights, at which point the 'Walk' symbol will illuminate for pedestrians. At the end of the crossing phase, the 'Don't Walk' symbol will flash, as will the amber traffic light.{{Cite web|title=New traffic signals make it safer for pedestrians |url=https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/nation/2010-08-09-crosswalk09_ST_N.htm|access-date=19 December 2021|website=USA Today}}

File:Shibuya Crossing (25790725888).jpg, in Tokyo, is a famous example of a pedestrian scramble with diagonal crossings.]]

Pedestrians are usually incorporated into urban signalised junctions in one of four ways: no facilities, parallel walk, walk with traffic, or all-red stages. No facilities may be provided if pedestrian demand is low, in areas where pedestrians are not permitted, or if there is a subway or overpass. No provision of formal facilities means pedestrians will have to self-evaluate when it is safe to cross, which can be intimidating for pedestrians.{{Rp|page=71}}

With a "parallel walk" design, pedestrians walk alongside the traffic flow. A leading pedestrian interval may be provided, whereby pedestrians get a "walk" signal before the traffic gets a green light, allowing pedestrians to establish themselves on the crossing before vehicles begin to turn, to encourage drivers to give way.{{Cite web|date=17 November 2017|title=Leading Pedestrian Interval|url=https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/streets-parking-transportation/traffic-management/traffic-signals-street-signs/types-of-traffic-signals/leading-pedestrian-interval-phase/|access-date=19 December 2021|website=City of Toronto|language=en-CA}}

A 'walk with traffic' facility allows pedestrians to go at the same time as other traffic movements with no conflict between movements. This can work well on one-way roads, where turning movements are banned or where the straight-ahead movement runs in a different stage from the turning movement. A splitter island could also be provided. Traffic will pass on either side of the island and pedestrians can cross the road safely between the other flows.{{Rp|page=72|pages=}}

An all-red stage, also known as a full pedestrian stage, a pedestrian scramble or a Barnes Dance,{{Efn|The Barnes Dance is named after an American traffic engineer, Henry A. Barnes. Barnes did not claim to have invented the system but was a strong advocate of it, having observed the difficulties his daughter faced crossing the road to get to school.}} holds all vehicular traffic at the junction to allow pedestrians time to safely cross without conflict from vehicles. It allows allows the use of diagonal crossings. This may require a longer cycle time and increase pedestrian wait periods, though the latter can be eased by providing two pedestrian stages.{{Rp|page=|pages=71–72}}File:MUTCD Ped Signal - Flashing hand with timer.svg

Pedestrian countdown timers are becoming common at urban signal-controlled crossings. Where a pedestrian countdown is shown, it is normally used in conjunction with the flashing hand signal (in the US and Canada) or blackout period (UK), showing the amount of time remaining in seconds until the end of the flashing hand or blackout.{{Cite journal |last=Schmitz |first=Jacob |date=1 July 2011 |title=The Effects of Pedestrian Countdown Timers on Safety and Efficiency of Operations at Signalized Intersections |url=https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/civilengdiss/28 |journal=Civil and Environmental Engineering Theses, Dissertations, and Student Research}} Pedestrian countdown timers do not significantly increase or reduce the number of red- and amber-light running drivers. Studies have found that pedestrian countdown timers do significantly improve pedestrian compliance over traditional pedestrian signals; however, results are mixed.{{Cite journal |last1=Kłos |first1=Marcin Jacek |last2=Sobota |first2=Aleksander |last3=Żochowska |first3=Renata |last4=Karoń |first4=Grzegorz |date=11 September 2020 |title=Effects of countdown timers on traffic safety at signalized intersections |journal=Transactions on Transport Sciences |volume=11 |issue=2 |pages=19–27 |doi=10.5507/tots.2020.010 |s2cid=225185972 |issn=1802-971X|doi-access=free }}{{Clear}}

As 12 to 45% of pedestrian deaths caused by 'pedestrian distraction' have been linked to cell phone usage,{{Cite web |title=Smartphone texting linked to compromised pedestrian safety |url=https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/02/200203210601.htm |access-date=2024-06-08 |website=ScienceDaily |language=en}} some cities (including Sydney, Seoul, Augsburg, Bodegraven, Tel Aviv, and Singapore) have installed LED strips embedded in the sidewalk before crosswalks to warn distracted pedestrians of immanent pedestrian crossings.{{Cite web |last=Broom |first=Douglas |date=November 1, 2021 |title=Zombie traffic lights' are saving the lives of smartphone users - here's how |url=https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/11/saving-lives-smartphone-zombies-pedestrians/ |access-date=June 8, 2024 |website=World Economic Forum}} This additional signal, which is synchronized with conventional signals, aims to decrease injury rates by telling distracted pedestrians when it is safe to cross the road without them having to lift their head.

File:Korean smartphone zombie pedestrian traffic light green.jpg|Smartphone zombie light in green

File:Korean smartphone zombie pedestrian traffic light green close up.jpg|Smartphone zombie light in green, close up

File:Korean smartphone zombie pedestrian traffic light red.jpg|Smartphone zombie light in red

File:Korean smartphone zombie pedestrian traffic light red close up.jpg|Smartphone zombie light in red, close up

In some jurisdictions such as Australia, pedestrian lights are associated with a sound device, for the benefit of blind and visually impaired pedestrians. These make a slow beeping sound when the pedestrian lights are red and a continuous buzzing or fast beeping sound when the lights are green. In the Australian States of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia, the sound is produced in the same unit as the push buttons. In a circle above the button on a PB/5 crossing, the sound is produced and can be felt along with a raised arrow that points in the direction to walk.{{Cite web|last=Park |first=Miles|title=Sublime design: the PB/5 pedestrian button|url=http://theconversation.com/sublime-design-the-pb-5-pedestrian-button-26232|access-date=19 December 2020|website=The Conversation|date=29 June 2014 }}

This system of assistive technology is also widely used at busy intersections in Canadian cities. In the United Kingdom, the Puffin crossings and their predecessor, the Pelican crossing, will make a fast beeping sound to indicate that it is safe to cross the road. The beeping sound is disabled during the nighttime so as not to disturb any nearby residents.[http://www.2pass.co.uk/crossing.htm#.T194QfUZlGM Types of Pedestrian Crossing in the UK]. 2pass.co.uk.

In some states in the United States, at some busy intersections, buttons will make a beeping sound for blind people. When the light changes, a speaker built into the button will play a recording to notify blind people that it is safe to cross. When the signal flashes red, the recording will start to count down with the countdown timer. In several countries such as New Zealand, technology also allows deaf and blind people to feel when lights have changed to allow safe crossing. A small pad, housed within an indentation in the base of the box housing the button mechanism, moves downwards when the lights change to allow crossing. This is designed to be felt by anyone waiting to cross who has limited ability to detect sight or sound.

In Japan, a traffic light emits an electronic sound that mimics the sound of birdsong to help the visually impaired. Some traffic lights fix the order and type of sound so that they can tell which direction is a green light. In general, "Piyo" (peep) and "Piyo-piyo", which is a small bird call, and "Kakkō" and "Ka-kakkō", which is a cuckoo call, are associated with this system.{{Cite web|title=横断歩道、減る「通りゃんせ」 音響信号「ピヨピヨ」化：朝日新聞デジタル|url=https://www.asahi.com/articles/ASJ9N3VTNJ9NTIPE00Z.html|access-date=1 September 2020|website=朝日新聞デジタル|language=ja|archive-date=6 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201106132038/https://www.asahi.com/articles/ASJ9N3VTNJ9NTIPE00Z.html|url-status=dead}} Some pedestrian crossings in Lithuania make a slow beeping sound indicating that the traffic light is about to turn off.

{{Further|Protected intersection}}

File:Bicycle stoplight.jpg

File:Cyclist advanced stop line Liverpool.jpg

Where cycle lanes or cycle tracks exist on the approach to a signal-controlled junction, it must be considered how to incorporate cyclists safely into the junction to reduce conflict between motor vehicles and cyclists.

An advanced stop line can be placed after the stop line at traffic lights. This allows cyclists to position themselves in front of traffic at a red light and get a headstart.{{Cite web|title=Advanced Stop Line {{!}} Cycling Embassy of Great Britain|url=https://www.cycling-embassy.org.uk/dictionary/advanced-stop-line|access-date=19 December 2021|website=www.cycling-embassy.org.uk}}

In the US, design advice typically advises that the cycle lane should continue through the junction to the left of the right-turn lane; however, this creates conflict where motor vehicles wish to enter the right lane, as they must cross the cycle lane at a bad angle.{{Citation|last=Dutch|first=Bicycle|title=Junction design, the Dutch – cycle-friendly – way [120]|date=3 April 2011|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlApbxLz6pA|work=YouTube|language=en|access-date=18 December 2021}}

Under Dutch engineering principles, cyclists are instead kept to the right of the junction, with protected kerbs. This improves safety by putting cyclists into the eyeline of motor vehicles at the stop line, allowing cyclists a headstart over turning traffic. This design also allows cyclists to complete far-side turns without having to wait in the centre of the junction. UK engineers have innovated on this design through the Cycle Optimised Protected Signals (CYCLOPS) junction, e.g. in Manchester. This places the cycle track around the edge of the signal junction and gives cyclists and pedestrians a single all-red phase, entirely separate from motor traffic and shortens pedestrian crossing times.{{Cite web|title=Manchester opens UK's first CYCLOPS cycling junction|url=https://www.intelligenttransport.com/transport-news/101901/manchester-opens-uks-first-cyclops-cycling-junction/|access-date=18 December 2021|website=Intelligent Transport|language=en}}

Alternatively, cyclists can be considered pedestrians on approach to a junction, or where a cycle track crosses a road and combined pedestrian-cyclist traffic lights (known as Toucan crossings in the UK) can be provided.{{Cite web|title=What is a Toucan crossing?|url=https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/car-news/105228/what-is-a-toucan-crossing|access-date=19 December 2021|website=Auto Express|language=en}}

Traffic lights for public transport often use signals that are distinct from those for private traffic. They can be letters, arrows or bars of white or (an LED 100-watt typical) coloured light.

MUTCD specifies a standard vertically oriented signal with either two or three lenses, displaying white lines on a black background.{{MUTCD |year=2009 |revision=3 |chapter=8C}}{{rp|Fig.8C-3}}

Some systems use the letter B for buses and T for trams. The METRO light rail system in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the Valley Metro Rail in Phoenix, Arizona. The RTA Streetcar System in New Orleans use a simplified variant of the Belgian/French system in the respective city's central business district where only the "go" and "stop" configurations are used. A third signal equal to amber is accomplished by flashing the "go" signal.

In some European countries and Russia, dedicated traffic signals for public transport (tram, as well any that is using a dedicated lane) have four white lights that form the letter T.{{Citation needed|date=December 2009}} If the three top lamps are lit, this means "stop". If the bottom lamp and some lamps on the top row are lit, this means permission to go in a direction shown. In the case of a tram signal, if there are no tram junctions or turns at an intersection, a simpler system of one amber signal in the form of the letter T is used instead; the tram must proceed only when the signal is lit.

In North European countries, the tram signals feature white lights of different forms: "S" for "stop", "—" for "caution" and arrows to permit passage in a given direction.{{Cite web|url=http://www.trafikverket.se/TrvSeFiler/Foretag/Bygga_och_underhalla/Vag/Vagutformning/Dokument_vag_och_gatuutformning/Vagar_och_gators_utformning/Trafiksignaler/04_utrustning_trafiksignaler.pdf|title=Publication on traffic lights the from the Swedish Transport Administration|access-date=25 August 2011|archive-date=23 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160923032057/http://www.trafikverket.se/TrvSeFiler/Foretag/Bygga_och_underhalla/Vag/Vagutformning/Dokument_vag_och_gatuutformning/Vagar_och_gators_utformning/Trafiksignaler/04_utrustning_trafiksignaler.pdf|url-status=dead}} In Sweden, All signals use white lighting and special symbols ("S", "–" and an arrow) to distinguish them from regular signals.

File:Public_transportation_traffic_lights_in_NL_and_BE.svg

The Netherlands uses a distinctive "negenoog" (nine-eyed) design shown on the top row of the diagram.{{in lang|nl}} [http://wetten.overheid.nl/cgi-bin/deeplink/law1/title=RVV RVV 1990 artikel 70] Official regulation of traffic rules and traffic signs Bottom row signals are used in Belgium, Luxembourg, France, and Germany. The signals mean (from left to right): "go straight ahead", "go left", "go right", "go in any direction" (like the "green" of a normal traffic light), "stop, unless the emergency brake is needed" (equal to "amber"), and "stop" (equal to "red").

In Japan, tram signals are under the regular vehicle signal; however, the colour of the signal intended for trams is orange("yellow"). The small light at the top tells the driver when the vehicle's transponder signal is received by the traffic light. In Hong Kong, an amber T-signal is used for trams, in place of the green signal. At any tramway junction, another set of signals is available to indicate the direction of the tracks. In Australia and New Zealand, a white "B" or "T" sometimes replaces the green light indicating that buses or trams (respectively) have right of way.

File:HK Causeway Bay tram traffic lights Aug-2017.jpg|T signal (trams) in Hong Kong

File:Karlsruhe Ebertstr-Karlstr Tramampeln.jpg|Bus and tram signals in Karlsruhe, Germany

{{Main|Traffic signal preemption|Bus priority}}

Some regions have signals that are interruptible, giving priority to special traffic, usually emergency vehicles such as firefighting apparatus, ambulances, and police cars.{{cite web |title=Emergency vehicle traffic signal preemption system |work=United States Patent and Trademark Office |url=http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=6326903 |access-date=7 October 2005 |archive-date=21 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221033705/http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=6326903 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/HTM/2003r1/part4/part4f.htm|title=FHWA – MUTCD – 2003 Edition Revision 1 Chapter 4F|work=dot.gov}} Most of the systems operate with small transmitters that send radio waves, infrared signals, or strobe light signals that are received by a sensor on or near the traffic lights. Some systems use audio detection, where a certain type of siren must be used and detected by a receiver on the traffic light structure.

Upon activation, the normal traffic light cycle is suspended and replaced by the "preemption sequence": the traffic lights to all approaches to the intersection are switched to "red" with the exception of the light for the vehicle that has triggered the preemption sequence. Sometimes, an additional signal light is placed nearby to indicate to the preempting vehicle that the preempting sequence has been activated and to warn other motorists of the approach of an emergency vehicle. The normal traffic light cycle resumes after the sensor has been passed by the vehicle that triggered the preemption.

In lieu of preemptive mechanisms, in most jurisdictions, emergency vehicles are not required to respect traffic lights. Emergency vehicles must slow down, proceed cautiously and activate their emergency lights to alert oncoming drivers to the preemption when crossing an intersection against the light.{{cite web|title=Emergency Vehicles at Red Signal or Stop Sign|url=http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/4511.03|website=Ohio Laws and Rules|access-date=22 July 2014}}{{cite web|title=Emergency Service and Vehicles|url=https://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?000+cod+46.2-920|website=Virginia General Assembly|access-date=22 July 2014}}

Unlike preemption, which immediately interrupts a signal's normal operation to serve the preempting vehicle and is usually reserved for emergency use, "priority" is a set of strategies intended to reduce delay for specific vehicles, especially mass transit vehicles such as buses. A variety of strategies exist to give priority to transit but they all generally work by detecting approaching transit vehicles and making small adjustments to the signal timing. These adjustments are designed to either decrease the likelihood that the transit vehicle will arrive during a red interval or decrease the length of the red interval for those vehicles that are stopped. Priority does not guarantee that transit vehicles always get a green light the instant they arrive as preemption does.

{{Main|Traffic light control and coordination}}

File:Traffic Phases and Stages.png

A variety of different control systems are used to operate signal cycles smoothly, ranging from simple clockwork mechanisms to sophisticated computerised control systems. Computerised systems are normally actuated, i.e. controlled by loop detectors or other sensors on junction approaches. Area-wide coordination can allow green wave systems to be set up for vehicles or cycle tracks.{{cite web |last=Robinson |first=Larry |title=Traffic Signal Progression |url=http://midimagic.sgc-hosting.com/progreso.htm |access-date=22 May 2014}} Smart traffic light systems combine traditional actuation, a wider array of sensors and artificial intelligence to further improve performance of signal systems.{{Cite web |date=18 May 2022 |title=Going Nowhere Fast? Smart Traffic Lights Can Help Ease Gridlock |url=https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/civil/smart-traffic-lights-news.htm |access-date=4 February 2023 |website=HowStuffWorks |language=en-us}} A traffic signal junction or crossing is typically controlled by a controller mounted inside a cabinet nearby.[http://www.dot.state.mn.us/trafficeng/publ/signals101/index.html Traffic Signals 101] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228141151/http://www.dot.state.mn.us/trafficeng/publ/signals101/index.html |date=28 February 2021 }}, Minnesota Department of Transportation, 2006

"Phases" (or "signal groups" in Australia and New Zealand) are indications show simultaneously, e.g. multiple green lights which control the same traffic approach. A "movement" is any path through the junction which vehicles or pedestrians are permitted to take, which is "conflicting" if these paths cross one another. A stage (or "phase" in ANZ) is a group of non-conflicting phases which move at the same time. The stages are collectively known as a "cycle".{{Cite web |title=Traffic Signal Design Terminology |url=https://www.traffic-signal-design.com/traffic-signal-design-terminology.htm |access-date=2 October 2022 |website=www.traffic-signal-design.com |language=en}}

The time between two conflicting green phases is called an "intergreen period", which is set at an appropriate length for the junction to safely clear, especially for turning traffic which may be waiting in the centre of the junction. This often results in an all red stage, when all approaches are shown a red light and no vehicle can proceed. This all red is sometimes extended to allow a pedestrian scramble, where pedestrians can cross the empty junction in any direction all at once.DfT Traffic Advisory Leaflet 1/06, Part 4 – https://tsrgd.co.uk/pdf/tal/2006/tal-1-06_4.pdf Some signals have no "all red" phase: the light turns green for cross traffic the instant the other light turns red.{{efn|These are typically older signals. There are many examples in Houston, Texas, of this. Suspended lights constructed so that a single source simultaneously illuminates all four directions always have this characteristic: Red (in two directions) and green (in the two cross directions) with Red-Yellow-Green sequence on two sides and Green-Yellow-Red sequence on the cross sides{{citation needed|date=February 2014}} }}

Many traffic light installations are fitted with vehicle actuation, i.e. detection, to improve the flexibility of traffic systems to respond to varying traffic flows. Detectors come in the form of digital sensors fitted to the signal heads or induction loops within the road surface. Induction loops are beneficial due to their smaller chance of breakdown, but their simplicity can limit their ability to handle some situations, particularly involving lighter vehicles such as motorcycles or pedal cycles.{{cite web |date=April 2000 |title=How does a traffic light detect that a car has pulled up and is waiting for the light to change? |url=https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/safety-regulatory-devices/how-does-a-traffic-light-detect-that-a-car-has-pulled-up-and-is-waiting-for-the-light-to-change.htm |access-date=7 January 2021 |website=Howstuffworks}} This situation most often occurs at times of day when other traffic is sparse as well as when the small vehicle is coming from a direction that does not have a high volume of traffic.{{cite web |title=Motorcycles And Stoplights |url=http://motorcycleassistant.com/motorcycles-and-stoplights/ |website=Motorcycle Assistant}}

{{Main|Signal timing}}

File:Traffic_light_in_Tehran.jpg, Iran]]

The timing of the intergreen is usually based on the size of the intersection, which can range from two to five seconds.{{Citation needed|date=February 2023}} Modelling programs include the ability to calculate intergreen times automatically. Intergreen periods are determined by calculating the path distance for every conflict point in the junction, which is the distance travelled to the conflict point by the movement losing right of way minus the distance travelled to the same conflict point by the movement gaining right of way using the possible conflict points (including with pedestrians) and calculating both the time it would take the last vehicle to clear the furthest collision point and the first vehicle from the next stage to arrive at the conflict point. At actuated junctions, integreens can be varied to account for traffic conditions.

Engineers also need to set the amber timings (and red–amber, where appropriate), which is normally standardised by a traffic authority. For example, in the UK, the amber time is fixed nationally at three seconds and the red–amber time at two seconds, which results in a minimum intergreen time of five seconds (plus any all-red time). The US also uses a minimum of three seconds, but local traffic authorities can make timings longer, especially on wider, suburban roads. This variation has resulted in controversy when municipalities with shorter amber times use red light cameras.{{Cite web |title=Yellow lights shorter in Chicago |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2010-03-22-ct-met-yellow-light-20100322-story.html |access-date=4 February 2023 |website=Chicago Tribune|date=22 March 2010 }} Where pedestrian signals are used, the timing of the "inivitation to cross" – the period where a steady walk signal shows – and clearance periods – time when the walk signal flashes or no signal is shown – need to be calculated. This is normally set against a design speed, e.g. {{Convert|1.2|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}}. Similarly, these can be made extendable using sensors, allowing slower-moving pedestrians more time to cross the street.

National or sub-national highway authorities often issue guidance documents on the specification of traffic signals and design of signalised intersections according to national or local regulations. For example, in the United States the Federal Highway Administration issues the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and the Signalized Intersections Information Guide, which is a synthesis of best practices and treatments to help practitioners make informed decisions.{{Cite web |title=Signalized Intersections Informational Guide |url=https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/intersection/signal/fhwasa13027.pdf}}

{{Main|Lane control lights}}

File:Lane signals en.svg typical lane control signal head]]

File:Pont Champlain 2009 02.jpg, Canada]]

Variable lane control is a form of intelligent transportation systems which involve the use of lane-use control signals, typically on a gantry above a carriageway. These lights are used in tidal flow systems to allow or forbid traffic to use one or more of the available lanes by the use of green lights or arrows (to permit) or by red lights or crosses (to prohibit).{{Cite web |title=FHWA – MUTCD – 2003 Edition Revision 1 Chapter 4J |url=https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/htm/2003r1/part4/part4j.htm |access-date=19 December 2021 |website=Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)}} Variable lane control may be in use at toll plazas to indicate open or closed booths; during heavy traffic to facilitate merging traffic from a slip road.

In the US, most notably the Southeastern, there often is a "continuous-flow" lane. This lane is protected by a single, constant-green arrow pointing down at the lane(s) permitting the continuous flow of traffic, without regard to the condition of signals for other lanes or cross streets. Continuous lanes are restricted in that vehicles turning from a side street may not cross over the double white line to enter the continuous lane. No lane changes are permitted to the continuous lane from an adjacent lane or from the continuous lane to an adjacent lane, until the double white line has been passed. Some continuous lanes are protected by a raised curb located between the continuous lane and a normal traffic lane, with white and/or amber reflective paint or tape, prohibiting turning or adjacent traffic from entering the lane.{{cn|date=February 2024}}

Continuous-flow traffic lanes are found only at "T" intersections where there is no side street or driveway entrance on the right side of the main thoroughfare. No pedestrians are permitted to cross the main thoroughfare at intersections with a continuous-flow lane, although crossing at the side street may be permitted.

Intersections with continuous-flow lanes will be posted with a white regulatory sign approximately {{convert|500|feet|abbr=on}} before the intersection with the phrase, "right lane continuous traffic," or other, similar, wording. If the arrow is extinguished for any reason, whether by malfunction or design, traffic through the continuous lane will revert to the normal traffic pattern for adjacent lanes, except that turning or moving into or out of the restricted lane is still prohibited.{{cn|date=February 2024}}

The three-aspect standard is also used at locks on the Upper Mississippi River. Red means that another vessel is passing through. Amber means that the lock chamber is being emptied or filled to match the level of the approaching vessel. After the gate opens, green means that the vessel may enter.

Railroad signals, for stopping trains in their own right of way, generally use the opposite positioning of the colours; that is, for signals above the driver's eyeline, green on top and red below is the standard placement of the signal colours on railroad tracks. There are three reasons for this variation: there is no risk that railway signals will be masked by a tall vehicle between the driver and the signal; train speeds in fog are much higher than for road vehicles, so it is important that the most restrictive signal is closest to the driver's eyeline; and with railway signals often in exposed rural locations, there is a risk of any signal other than the bottom one being masked by snow building up on the hood of the signal below.

{{Main|Rules for traffic lights}}

File:Red light fine sign.jpg attempts to discourage red light running by posting the minimum fine.]]Traffic lights control flows of traffic using social norms and legal rules. In most jurisdictions, it is against the law to disobey traffic signals and the police, or devices such as red light cameras, can issue fines or other penalties – and in some cases prosecute – drivers who break those laws.{{Cite web |date=8 April 2021 |title=Which European country has the strictest driving penalties? |url=https://zutobi.com/uk/driving-guides/driving-penalties-and-fines-in-eu |access-date=19 December 2021 |website=Zutobi Drivers Ed |language=en-GB}} US-based studies have found that the majority of drivers think that it is dangerous to run a red light at speed and the most common reason for red light running include inattentive driving, following an oversized vehicle or during inclement weather.{{Cite web |date=11 June 2020 |title=2019 Traffic Safety Culture Index |url=https://aaafoundation.org/2019-traffic-safety-culture-index/ |access-date=19 December 2021 |website=AAA Foundation |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=25 March 2021 |title=How to Prevent Red Light Runners |url=https://www.westernsystems-inc.com/stop-red-light-running/ |access-date=19 December 2021 |website=Western Systems |language=en-US}}

The rules governing traffic light junctions for vehicles differ by jurisdiction. For example, it is common in North America that drivers can turn kerb-to-kerb (i.e. turning right at most junctions), even when a red light shows.{{cite news |author=Michael Knight |date=30 December 1979 |title=For Boston Drivers It's Turn Right on Red and Full Speed Ahead |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1979/12/30/archives/for-boston-drivers-its-turn-right-on-red-and-full-speed-ahead.html |access-date=11 August 2022}}{{UnitedStatesCode|42|6322}} This turn on red rule is uncommon in Europe, unless an arrow signal or traffic sign specifically permits it.{{cite web |title=The Green Arrow |url=http://www.gruenpfeil.de/in-english.html |access-date=28 January 2021 |website=German Pedestrians' Association (FUSS e.V.) |archive-date=28 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128024359/http://gruenpfeil.de/in-english.html |url-status=dead }}{{cite journal |date=2016 |title=Pravilnik o prometni signalizaciji in prometni opremi na javnih cestah |url=http://www.pisrs.si/Pis.web/npbDocPdf?idPredpisa=PRAV13786&idPredpisaChng=PRAV11505&type=pdf |journal=Uradni List RS |language=sl |publisher=Služba Vlade RS za zakonodajo |page=56 |access-date=25 August 2021 |quote=2444 — Vožnja desno ob rdeči luči na semaforju}}Arrêté du 24 novembre 1967 relatif à la signalisation des routes et des autoroutes – Article 7. {{cite web |title=Arrêté du 24 novembre 1967 relatif à la signalisation des routes et des autoroutes – Article 7 | Legifrance |url=http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichTexteArticle.do;jsessionid=8EE36C429C78C3EFCB06EDB0F10FDA60.tpdila10v_2?idArticle%3DLEGIARTI000025705490%26cidTexte%3DJORFTEXT000000829916%26categorieLien%3Did%26dateTexte%3D |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160412185700/https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichTexteArticle.do%3Bjsessionid%3D8EE36C429C78C3EFCB06EDB0F10FDA60.tpdila10v_2?idArticle=LEGIARTI000025705490&cidTexte=JORFTEXT000000829916&categorieLien=id&dateTexte= |archive-date=12 April 2016 |access-date=2 October 2015}}{{cite web |title=The Highway Code: Using the road (rule 177) |url=https://www.gov.uk/using-the-road-159-to-203/road-junctions-170-to-183 |access-date=26 June 2015}}

Conventional traffic signal lighting, still common in some areas, uses a standard light bulb. The light then bounces off a mirrored glass or polished aluminium reflector bowl, and out through a polycarbonate plastic or glass signal lens. In some signals, these lenses were cut to include a specific refracting pattern. Traditionally, incandescent and halogen bulbs were used. Because of the low efficiency of light output and a single point of failure (filament burnout), some traffic authorities are choosing to retrofit traffic signals with LED arrays that consume less power, have increased light output, and last significantly longer.{{Citation needed|date=July 2020}}

In the event of an individual LED failure, the aspect will still operate albeit with a reduced light output. The light pattern of an LED array can be comparable to the pattern of an incandescent or halogen bulb fitted with a prismatic lens.

The low energy consumption of LED lights can pose a driving risk in some areas during winter. Unlike incandescent and halogen bulbs, which generally get hot enough to melt away any snow that may settle on individual lights, LED displays – using only a fraction of the energy – remain too cool for this to happen.{{cite web |url=http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/Canada/20100110/LED_Snow_100110/ |title=LED traffic lights could pose winter driving risk |publisher=CTV |date=5 October 2011 |access-date=5 October 2011}}{{dead link|date=July 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/ConsumerNews/led-traffic-lights-unusual-potentially-deadly-winter-problem/story?id=9506449|title=LED Traffic Lights Unusual, Potentially Deadly Winter Problem |author=Elizabeth Leamy |author2=Vanessa Weber |date=4 January 2010 |work=ABC News}} As a response to the safety concerns, a heating element on the lens was developed.{{cite web |author=Marmarelli, Beth |title=Engineering Team Develops Device to Aid LED Traffic Signals in Inclement Weather & Places Overall in Campus's Senior Design Competition |publisher=University of Michigan |date=22 June 2011 |url=http://sustainability.umich.edu/news/engineering-team-develops-device-aid-led-traffic-signals-inclement-weather-places-overall-campu |access-date=22 June 2011 |archive-date=13 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120413011756/http://sustainability.umich.edu/news/engineering-team-develops-device-aid-led-traffic-signals-inclement-weather-places-overall-campu |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.faqs.org/patents/app/20120255942 |publisher=United States Patent Office |title=Patent application title: Traffic Light Heater |work=Class name: Heating devices combined with diverse-type art device electrical devices, 20120255942 |author=Hankscraft Inc. |date=11 October 2012 | access-date=11 October 2012}}

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| image1 = First and Mill 3Ms img14.jpg{{!}}3M traffic signals in Shelton, Washington, as seen off-axis from the intended viewing area. These signals appear to be "off" or invisible to adjacent lanes of traffic during the daytime. Only a faint glow can be seen when viewed at night.

| image2 = First and Mill 3Ms img07.jpg{{!}}3M traffic signals in Shelton, Washington, as seen from the signal's intended viewing area. Special light-diffusing optics and a coloured Fresnel lens create the indication

| footer = Traffic signals installed in Shelton, Washington, seen off-axis from the intended viewing area (top) and from the signal's intended viewing area (bottom).{{pb}}From off-axis, these signals appear to be "off" or invisible to adjacent lanes of traffic during the daytime. Only a faint glow can be seen when viewed at night.

}}

Signals such as the 3M High Visibility Signal utilize light-diffusing optics and a Fresnel lens to create the signal indication. The light from a 150 W PAR46 sealed-beam lamp in these "programmable visibility" signals passes through a set of two glass lenses at the back of the signal. The first lens, a frosted glass diffusing lens, diffuses the light into a uniform ball of light around five inches in diameter. The light then passes through a nearly identical lens known as an optical limiter (3M's definition of the lens itself), also known as a "programming lens", also five inches in diameter.{{Citation needed|date=July 2020}}

Using a special aluminium foil-based adhesive tape, these signals are "masked" or programmed by the programming lens so that only certain lanes of traffic will view the indication. At the front of these programmable visibility signals is a 12" Fresnel lens, each lens tinted to meet United States Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) chromaticity and luminance standards. The Fresnel lens collimates the light output created by the lamp and creates a uniform display of light for the lane in which it is intended.

In addition to being positioned and mounted for desired visibility for their respective traffic, some traffic lights are also aimed, louvered, or shaded to minimize misinterpretation from other lanes. For example, a Fresnel lens on an adjacent through-lane signal may be aimed to prevent left-turning traffic from anticipating its own green arrow. Intelight Inc. manufactures a programmable traffic signal that uses a software-controlled LED array and electronics to steer the light beam toward the desired approach.{{cite web|url=http://intelight-its.com/product/esb-signals/item/34-intelight-esb-traffic-signal-head.html|title=Intelight ESB Traffic Signal Head|work=intelight-its.com|access-date=21 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808220251/http://intelight-its.com/product/esb-signals/item/34-intelight-esb-traffic-signal-head.html|archive-date=8 August 2014|url-status=dead}}

The signal is programmed unlike the 3M and McCain models. It requires a connection to a laptop or smartphone with the manufacturer's software installed. Connections can be made directly with a direct-serial interface kit, or wirelessly with a radio kit over WIFI to the signal. In addition to aiming, Fresnel lenses, and louvers, visors and back panels are also useful in areas where sunlight would diminish the contrast and visibility of a signal face. Typical applications for these signals were skewed intersections, specific multi-lane control, left-turn pocket signals, or other areas where complex traffic situations existed.

File:Colors of a Stoplight- Animated- Lewiston.gif

In the United States, traffic lights are currently designed with lights approximately {{convert|12|in|-1}} in diameter. Previously the standard had been {{convert|8|in|-1}}; however, those are slowly being phased out in favour of the larger and more visible 12 inch lights. Variations used have also included a hybrid design, which had one or more 12 inch lights along with one or more lights of {{convert|8|in|-1}} on the same light.

In the United Kingdom, 12-inch lights were implemented only with Mellor Design Signal heads designed by David Mellor. These were designed for symbolic optics to compensate for the light loss caused by the symbol. Following a study sponsored by the UK Highways Agency and completed by Aston University, Birmingham, UK, an enhanced optical design was introduced in the mid-1990s.

Criticism{{by whom|date=February 2024}} of sunlight washout (cannot see the illuminated signal due to sunlight falling on it), and sun-phantom (signal appearing to be illuminated even when not due to sunlight reflecting from the parabolic mirror at low sun angles), led to the design of a signal that used lenslets to focus light from a traditional incandescent bulb through apertures in a matt black front mask. This cured both problems in an easily manufactured solution. This design proved successful and was taken into production by a number of traffic signal manufacturers through the engineering designs of Dr. Mark Aston, working firstly at the SIRA Ltd in Kent, and latterly as an independent optical designer.{{Citation needed|date=December 2008}}

The manufacturers took a licence for the generic design from the Highways Agency, with Dr. Aston engineering a unique solution for each manufacturer. Producing both bulb and LED versions of the signal aspects, these signals are still the most common type of traffic light on UK roads. With the invention of anti-phantom, highly visible Aston lenses, lights of {{convert|8|in|mm|-1}} could be designed to give the same output as plain lenses, so a larger surface area was unnecessary. Consequently, lights of {{convert|12|in|-1}} are no longer approved for use in the UK and all lights installed on new installations have to be {{convert|200|mm|0|abbr=on}} in accordance with TSRGD (Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions). Exemptions are made for temporary or replacement signals.{{Citation needed|date=December 2008}}

File:Part time traffic lights on the Pialligo Avenue.jpg|Part time pole/pedestal-mounted traffic lights in Canberra, Australia

File:Traffic lights and vehicular transportation in Ekiti State. 05.jpg|Mast-arm traffic lights in Ekiti State, Nigeria

File:Taiyuan Road shops and pedestrian overpass 20100622.jpg|Horizontal traffic lights mounted on a footbridge in Taipei, Taiwan

File:Dummy Light.jpg|A dummy light in Canajoharie, New York. It was removed in 2021.[https://www.recordernews.com/news/local-news/203892 The Recorder, Village of Canajoharie to permanently move historic dummy light out of Wagner Square, Shenandoah Briere, August 10, 2022] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710165750/https://www.recordernews.com/news/local-news/203892 |date=10 July 2023 }}, Retrieved Jul. 10, 2023.

The MUTCD identifies five types of traffic light mounts. On pedestals, signal heads are mounted on a single pole. This is the normal installation method for the UK.{{Cite book |last=Buckholz |first=Jeffrey W. |url=https://www.cedengineering.com/userfiles/Traffic%20Signal%20Supports%20-R1.pdf |title=Traffic Signal Supports, Indications and Signing |publisher=CED Engineering |location=Woodcliff Lake, NJ}} On mast arms, signal heads are mounted on a rigid arm over the road protuding from the pole. On strained poles, signals are suspended over a roadway on a wire, attached to poles at opposite kerbs. This is the most common installation method in the United States. Unipoles are similar to strain poles, but a single structure over the road, rather than two poles linked with wire. Signals can be attached to existing structures such as an overpass. Dummy lights are traffic signs located in the centre of a junction, which operate on a fixed cycle. These have generally been decommissioned due to safety concerns. A number remain due to historic value.{{Cite web |title=A Dummy Forever! |url=https://www.crotonfriendsofhistory.org/dummy-forever |access-date=18 December 2021 |website=Croton Friends of History |language=en-US}}

Signals can either be placed nearside – between the stop line and the kerbline of the intersecting road – or farside – on the opposite side of the junction. In European countries, signals are often placed on the nearside.{{Cite web |date=30 April 2021 |title=Near Side Signals: Thinking Outside the Pedestrian Box |url=https://streets.mn/2021/04/30/thinking-outside-the-pedestrian-box/ |access-date=4 February 2023 |website=Streets.mn |language=en-US}} In the UK, at least two signal heads are required, known as the primary and secondary heads, one of which is normally nearside and the other of which could be nearside or farside. In the US, signals are normally located farside, though in some states, nearside signals are also used. Nearside signals can be beneficial to road safety, as drivers have more time to see a red light and are less likely to encroach on pedestrian crossings.

Drivers spend on average around 2% of journey time passing through signalised junctions.{{Cite web|title=Why traffic lights are pollution hotspots|url=https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2015/02/why-traffic-lights-are-pollution-hotspots/|access-date=19 December 2021|website=World Economic Forum|language=en}} Traffic lights can increase the traffic capacity at intersections and reduce delay for side road traffic, but can also result in increased delay for main road traffic.{{cite web|date=September 2007|title=Traffic Signals|url=http://www.ite.org/safety/issuebriefs/Traffic%20Signals%20Issue%20Brief.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090327022232/http://www.ite.org/safety/issuebriefs/Traffic%20Signals%20Issue%20Brief.pdf|archive-date=27 March 2009|access-date=1 April 2009|publisher=Institute of Transportation Engineers}} Hans Monderman, the innovative Dutch traffic engineer, and pioneer of shared space schemes, was sceptical of their role, and is quoted as having said of them: "We only want traffic lights where they are useful and I haven't found anywhere where they are useful yet."{{cite news|author=David Millward|date=4 November 2006|title=Is this the end of the road for traffic lights?|work=The Daily Telegraph|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1533248/Is-this-the-end-of-the-road-for-traffic-lights.html|access-date=1 April 2009}}

A World Economic Forum study found that signalised junctions are linked to higher rates of localised air pollution. Drivers accelerate and stop frequently at lights and as such peak particle concentration can be around 29 times higher than during free-flow conditions. The WEF recommends that traffic authorities synchronise traffic signals, consider alternative traffic management systems and consider placing traffic lights away from residential areas, schools, and hospitals.

The separation of conflicting streams of traffic in time can reduce the chances of right-angle collisions by turning traffic and cross traffic, but they can increase the frequency of rear-end crashes by up to 50%.National Cooperative Highway Research Program, Crash Reduction Factors for Traffic Engineering and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Improvements: State-of-Knowledge Report, November 2005, Table 3 Since right-angled and turn-against-traffic collisions are more likely to result in injuries, this is often an acceptable trade-off. They can also adversely affect the safety of bicycle and pedestrian traffic. Between 1979 and 1988, the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, removed signals at 199 intersections that were not warranted. On average, the intersections had 24% fewer crashes after the unwarranted signals were removed. The traffic lights had been erected in the 1960s because of since-resolved protests over traffic. By 1992, over 800 traffic lights had been removed at 426 intersections, and the number of crashes at these intersections dropped by 60%.{{cite web|url=http://articles.philly.com/1992-04-19/news/26003417_1_traffic-signals-traffic-lights-slow-traffic|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150404015508/http://articles.philly.com/1992-04-19/news/26003417_1_traffic-signals-traffic-lights-slow-traffic|url-status=dead|archive-date=4 April 2015|title=Archives - Philly.com|website=The Philadelphia Inquirer}}

{{Globalize section|USA|2name=the United States|date=December 2010}}

Criteria have been developed to help ensure that new traffic lights are installed only where they will do more good than harm and to justify the removal of existing traffic lights where they are not warranted. They are most often placed on arterial roads at intersections with either another arterial road or a collector road, or on an expressway where an interchange is not warranted. In some situations, traffic signals can also be found on collector roads in busy settings.

The International Municipal Signal Association provides input as to standards concerning traffic signals and control devices. One example is the input the association provided for the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).{{Citation |title=International Municipal Signal Association |date=23 October 2021 |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=International_Municipal_Signal_Association&oldid=1051364245 |work=Wikipedia |access-date=8 July 2023 |language=en}} The MUTCD is issued by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) of the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT).{{Citation |title=Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices |date=8 July 2023 |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Manual_on_Uniform_Traffic_Control_Devices&oldid=1164284829 |work=Wikipedia |access-date=8 July 2023 |language=en}}

In the United States, the criteria for installation of a traffic control signal are prescribed by the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which defines the criteria in nine warrants:[https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/htm/2009/part4/part4c.htm Section 4C. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (2009 Edition)]. Mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov.

• Eight-hour vehicular volume. Traffic volume must exceed prescribed minima for eight hours of an average weekday.
• Four-hour vehicular volume. Traffic volume must exceed prescribed minima for four hours of an average weekday.
• Peak hour volume or delay. This is applied only in unusual cases, such as office parks, industrial complexes, and park and ride lots that attract or discharge large numbers of vehicles in a short time, and for a minimum of one hour of an average weekday. The side road traffic suffers undue delays when entering or crossing the major street.
• Pedestrian volume. If the traffic volume on a major street is so heavy that pedestrians experience excessive delays in attempting to cross it.
• School crossing. If the traffic density at school crossing times exceeds one per minute which is considered to provide too few gaps in the traffic for children to safely cross the street.
• Coordinated signal system. For places where adjacent traffic control signals do not keep traffic grouped together efficiently.
• Crash experience. The volumes in the eight- and four-hour warrants may be reduced if five or more right-angle and cross traffic turn collisions have happened at the intersection in a twelve-month period.
• Roadway network. Installing a traffic control signal at some intersections might be justified to encourage concentration and organization of traffic flow on a roadway network.
• Intersection near a grade crossing. A traffic control signal is often justified at an intersection near a railroad crossing, in order to provide a preemption sequence to allow traffic queued up on the tracks an opportunity to clear the tracks before the train arrives.

In the US, an intersection is usually required to meet one or more of these warrants before a signal is installed. However, meeting one or more warrants does not require the installation of a traffic signal, it only suggests that they may be suitable. It could be that a roundabout would work better. There may be other unconsidered conditions that lead traffic engineers to conclude that a signal is undesirable. For example, it may be decided not to install a signal at an intersection if traffic stopped by it will back up and block another, more heavily trafficked intersection. Also, if a signal meets only the peak hour warrant, the advantages during that time may not outweigh the disadvantages during the rest of the day.

The symbolism of a traffic light (and the meanings of the three primary colours used in traffic lights) are frequently found in many other contexts. Since they are often used as single spots of colour without the context of vertical position, they are typically not comprehensible to up to one in ten males who are colour blind.{{Citation needed|date=October 2014}}

Traffic lights have also been used in computer software, such as the macOS user interface, and in pieces of artwork, particularly Traffic Light Tree in London, UK.

{{see also|Racing flags}}

Automobile racing circuits can also use standard traffic signals to indicate to racing car drivers the status of racing. On an oval track, four sets may be used, two facing a straight-away and two facing the middle of the 180-degree turn between straight-away. Green would indicate racing is underway, while amber would indicate to slow or while following a pace car; red would indicate to stop, probably for emergency reasons.

Scuderia Ferrari, a Formula One racing team, formerly used a traffic light system during their pit stops to signal to their drivers when to leave the pits.{{Citation needed|date=December 2009}} The red light was on when the tires were being changed and fuel was being added, amber was on when the tires were changed, and green was on when all work was completed. The system is (usually) completely automatic. However, the system was withdrawn after the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix, due to the fact that it heavily delayed Felipe Massa during the race, when he was in the lead.

Usually, the system was automatic, but heavy traffic in the pit lane forced the team to operate it manually. A mechanic accidentally pressed the green light button when the fuel hose was still attached to the car, causing Massa to drive off, towing the fuel hose along. Additionally, Massa drove into the path of Adrian Sutil, earning him a penalty. He finally stopped at the end of the pit lane, forcing Ferrari's mechanics to sprint down the whole of the pit lane to remove the hose. As a result of this, and the penalty he also incurred, Massa finished 13th. Ferrari decided to use a traditional "lollipop" for the remainder of the 2008 season.

Another type of traffic light that is used in racing is the Christmas Tree, which is used in drag racing. The Christmas Tree has six lights: a blue staging light, three amber lights, a green light, and a red light. The blue staging light is divided into two parts: Pre-stage and stage. Sometimes, there are two sets of bulbs on top of each other to represent them. Once a driver is staged at the starting line, then the starter will activate the light to commence racing, which can be done in two ways. If a Pro tree is used, then the three amber lights will flash at the same time. For the Sportsman tree, the amber light will flash from top to bottom. When the green light comes up, the race officially begins but if a driver crosses the line before that happens, then a red light will come up and that will be a foul. {{citation needed|date=March 2019}}

{{See also|Traffic light rating system|European Union energy label}}

The colours red, amber, and green are often used as a simple-to-understand rating system for products and processes. It may be extended by analogy to provide a greater range of intermediate colours, with red and green at the extremes.{{cite web|title=Traffic Light Song|website = YouTube| date=16 June 2017 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=db0HqnDU5MI |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/db0HqnDU5MI| archive-date=11 December 2021 |url-status=live}}{{cbignore}}

In Unicode, the symbol for {{unichar|1F6A5|html=yes}} is HORIZONTAL TRAFFIC LIGHT and {{unichar|1F6A6|html=yes}} is VERTICAL TRAFFIC LIGHT.

{{div col|colwidth=23em}}

• Ampelmännchen
• Glossary of road transport terms
• Induction loop
• Lane control lights
• Level crossing
• Railway signal, rail equivalent
• Pedestrian crossing
• Ramp meter
• Stack light, used in industrial process control
• Traffic light coalition
• Traffic light control and coordination
• Traffic-light signalling and operation
• Traffic optimization
• Traffic robots in Kinshasa
• Slow Children At Play
• Smart traffic light
• Yellow trap

{{div col end}}

{{Reflist|group=note}}

{{notelist|30em}}

{{Reflist|30em}}

{{Refbegin}}

• City of Beacon. [https://web.archive.org/web/20080720032835/http://www.cityofbeacon.org/CouncilWorkshops/Workshops2007/061107.htm Canajoharie, New York: Credits]. Retrieved 30 September 2008.
• Croton-on-Hudson Historical Society. [https://books.google.com/books?id=ZulUZHJayv4C&dq=dummy+light+croton-on-hudson+1932&pg=PA94 Canajoharie, New York: Credits]. Retrieved 30 September 2008.
• Villages of Canajoharie & Palatine Bridge. [https://web.archive.org/web/20080901010117/http://www.canpal.org/dummy.htm Canajoharie, New York: Credits]. Retrieved 30 September 2008.
• {{cite book |last=Sessions |first=Gordon M. |date=1971 |title=Traffic devices: historical aspects thereof |location=Washington |publisher=Institute of Traffic Engineers |oclc=278619}}
• {{cite journal |last=Woods |first=Arthur |date=April 1916 |title=Keeping City Traffic Moving: One of the Most Difficult of All City Problems, And The New Methods Which Have Been Devised To Solve It |journal=The World's Work: A History of Our Time |volume=XXXI |pages=621–532 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=09_Sr9emceQC&pg=PA621 |access-date=4 August 2009 |publisher=Doubleday, Page & Company }}

{{Refend}}

{{Commons and category|Traffic lights|Traffic signals}}

• [https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/arterial_mgmt/index.htm FHWA Arterial Management Website, latest information on traffic signal operations]
• [http://projects.kittelson.com/pplt/displays2.htm Animations of various US signal phasings] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130517071152/http://projects.kittelson.com/pplt/displays2.htm |date=17 May 2013 }}
• [http://www.scats.com.au/ SCATS{{snd}}Sydney Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System]
• [https://purl.fdlp.gov/GPO/gpo41380 Safety Evaluation of Converting Traffic Signals from Incandescent to Light-emitting Diodes: Summary Report] Federal Highway Administration
• [https://purl.fdlp.gov/GPO/gpo41381 Safety Evaluation of Discontinuing Late-night Flash Operations at Signalized Intersections: Summary Report] Federal Highway Administration
• [http://dc.lib.jjay.cuny.edu/index.php/Detail/Object/Show/object_id/367 Traffic signals, 1922], digitized NYPD photograph from the Lloyd Sealy Library Digital Collections

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