A manager at a traffic management company has highlighted a 'dangerous myth' held by many motorists about temporary traffic lights, which could lead to a £100 fine and three penalty points. The warning comes after motoring experts revealed that some drivers wrongly assume red lights at roadworks are merely 'advisory' and not subject to the same legislation as permanent signals.
Flashing headlights myth
In a blog post, a manager at JandG Traffic Management Services outlined several misconceptions about temporary traffic lights, including the belief that flashing headlights can change the signal. He said: "When I explained I ran a traffic management company they immediately asked the question so many people believe, 'Can you change a temporary traffic light from red to green by flashing your headlights as you approach them?'"
He added: "Unfortunately, I had to shatter all their illusions and explain that this was not the case, and if they have done this and the lights had changed it was down to pure luck. What a lot of drivers fail to realise is that temporary traffic lights have the same regulations as static traffic lights, so jumping them can result in a £100 fine and 3 penalty points on their licence."
Advisory red lights belief
The manager also noted that many motorists genuinely believe a clear road gives them the green light to run a red, thinking the rules are 'advisory'. He said: "There are other people who believe that red temporary lights used in Streetworks locations are advisory, thinking that they can proceed with caution provided the road is clear with many admitting to chancing it at night saying that they thought the lights were faulty."
He explained: "According to the Road Traffic Act and the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions Legislation, temporary traffic control schemes carry the same validity as permanent signs and traffic lights and as so, must be adhered to in the same way. Running a red light whether static or temporary sees you risking a fine and your licence endorsed."
Highway Code rules
The manager warned: "I dare say the majority of us have found ourselves approaching temporary signals and as we can see no traffic, we therefore assume the lights are stuck on red, so sneak through before they turn green. If there is a stop sign or red light, stop and wait for it to go green. Even if you think the red light is broken, think of what the implications could be if it is just slow to change as part of a multi-junction area."
He concluded: "Jumping any red light puts you and other road users in harms way and you can be prosecuted. The Highway Code states, 'You must obey all traffic lights including temporary ones.' Remember flashing at temporary lights will not make any difference they will change when they do and sorry for busting this myth open. Do yourself and all road workers a favour and take the time when the light is red to relax, getting aerated will get you nowhere!"
The Highway Code makes clear that traffic light signals are obligatory for all road users. It states: "You MUST obey all traffic light signals and traffic signs giving orders, including temporary signals and signs."
