Imagine driving through a busy Florida intersection after a severe thunderstorm. The power is out, traffic is backed up, and the traffic lights are completely dark. Some drivers might stop, while others might only slow down. This confusion could lead to a serious collision, especially when drivers do not understand what they are legally required to do.
Under Florida law, drivers approaching an intersection with inoperative traffic lights must stop as they would at a stop sign. When all the traffic signals are out, motorists should treat the intersection like a four-way stop and yield to vehicles that have the right-of-way before proceeding.
Failing to follow these rules can lead to dangerous T-bone collisions, rear-end crashes, and other serious accidents.
What Does Florida Law Say About Traffic Lights That Are Out?
Florida has a specific statute addressing what drivers must do when traffic lights stop working. In Florida, a driver approaching an intersection with inoperative traffic lights must treat the intersection as they would if approaching a stop sign.
The law also addresses situations where only some of the traffic lights at an intersection have stopped working. A driver approaching an inoperative light must still stop as required by law.
A driver who ignores the law and causes a collision may be held legally responsible for any resulting injuries.
What Is the Difference Between a Flashing Red Light and a Flashing Yellow Light?
Not every malfunctioning traffic signal is completely dark. Sometimes, an intersection operates with flashing red or yellow lights.
Florida treats these signals differently from completely inoperative traffic lights:
- Flashing red traffic lights: A flashing red traffic light requires drivers to stop. After stopping, the driver must follow the rules that apply at a stop sign. You cannot treat a flashing red light as permission to proceed without stopping.
- Flashing yellow traffic lights: A flashing yellow light generally means drivers may proceed through an intersection with caution. A flashing yellow signal does not automatically require a complete stop. However, drivers must remain alert, adjust their speed, and respond appropriately to traffic and pedestrians.
You may generally proceed cautiously without making a complete stop. However, you must still exercise reasonable care to avoid a collision.
What if Only One Traffic Light Is Out?
Sometimes, only one approach to an intersection has a malfunctioning traffic light. In this situation, a driver approaching an inoperative light must stop, even when other signals at the intersection are still functioning.
However, motorists should not assume that every other driver faces the same signal condition. The safest approach is to stop, observe traffic carefully, and proceed only when the movement can be completed without interfering with vehicles that have the right-of-way.
Common Mistakes Drivers Make When Traffic Lights Are Out
Many intersection accidents happen because motorists misunderstand the law or fail to adjust their driving when signals malfunction.
Some of the most common mistakes at intersections include:
- Failing to come to a complete stop: A driver may slow down, look briefly in both directions, and continue through the intersection. If another vehicle enters from the side, the result may be a serious collision.
- Assuming the larger road has the right-of-way: Some drivers believe that motorists traveling on a major highway or busy boulevard automatically have priority over traffic on smaller roads.
- Following the vehicle ahead without stopping: The fact that another vehicle has already entered the intersection does not mean the next driver can proceed without stopping.
- Confusing flashing yellow with flashing red: Misunderstanding the difference can create unpredictable traffic movements.
- Driving too fast for conditions: A driver who approaches too quickly may be unable to stop before entering the intersection.
Some drivers can become distracted at intersections and cause serious accidents. Even a brief distraction can result in catastrophic injuries.
Contact Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Jacksonville Car Accident Attorney
When traffic lights stop working, Florida drivers have a legal responsibility to stop and follow right-of-way rules. Unfortunately, not every motorist understands or obeys these requirements. If you or someone you love was injured in an intersection accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. Our car accident lawyer in Jacksonville can investigate your crash, identify parties with liability, and help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra [RELATED PRACTICE AREA] law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and the surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167