Florida Drivers Handbook | Traffic Signals

Florida Drivers Handbook | 4.1. Traffic Signals

Signals, Signs, and Pavement Markings

4.1. Traffic Signals

4.2. Traffic Signs

4.3. Traffic Signs — Warnings

4.4. Traffic Signs — Rectangles

4.5. Railroad Crossing Signs and Signals

4.6. Drawbridge Signs and Signals

4.7. Special Signs

4.8. Pavement Markings

Traffic Control Signals

Traffic signals are placed at intersections to keep traffic moving and to avoid a crash. Drivers, pedestrians, and bicycle riders must obey these signals, except when an officer is directing traffic. Stop on the stop line if your car is nearest the signal. Some signals change only when a car is at the stop line. If traffic signals are out of order, treat the light as if it was a four-way stop sign.

Red

Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before moving into the crosswalk or intersection. At most intersections, after stopping, you may turn right on red if the way is clear. Some intersections display a "NO TURN ON RED" sign, which you must obey. Left turns on a red light from a one-way street into a one-way street are also allowed.

Yellow

Stop if you can. The light will soon be red.

Green

Go - but only if the intersection is clear. Yield to pedestrians and vehicles still in the intersection. If turning left, wait for a gap in oncoming traffic to complete a turn.

Red Arrow

Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before moving into the crosswalk or intersection. After stopping, you may turn right on a red arrow at most intersections if the way is clear. Some intersections display a "NO TURN ON RED" sign, which you must obey. Left turns on a red light from a one-way street into a one-way street are also allowed.

Yellow Arrow

Stop if you can. The light will soon be red. The yellow arrow means the same as the yellow light, but applies only to movement in the direction of the arrow.

Green Arrow

A green arrow, pointing right or left, means you may make a turn in the direction of the arrow. If the red light is burning at the same time, you must be in the proper lane for such a turn and you must yield the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians within the intersection.

Flashing Signals

A flashing red light means the same thing as a stop sign. It is used at dangerous intersections.

A flashing yellow light means you may move forward with caution. It is used at, or just before, dangerous intersections, or to alert you to a warning sign such as a school crossing or sharp curve.

Lane Signals

Lane signals are used:

When the direction of the flow of traffic changes during the day.
To show that a toll booth is open or closed.
To show which lanes are opened or closed.

You must never drive in a lane under a red X. A yellow X means that your lane signal is going to change to red. Prepare to leave the lane safely. You may drive in lanes beneath the green arrow, but you must also obey all other signs and signals.

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