What to Do at an Intersection With Flashing Lights
Bill Allen | May 20, 2025 | Car Accidents
Traffic signals are designed to regulate traffic flow and keep drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists safe. However, there are times, such as during power outages or maintenance, when these signals switch to flashing modes. These situations can confuse drivers, and misunderstanding how to react can lead to serious car accidents.
Knowing how to respond at these intersections is essential, and it can also affect your ability to recover damages if you’re involved in an accident. Here is how to interpret flashing red and yellow lights in Florida.
What Does a Flashing Red Light Mean in Florida?
If you are ever left wondering what a flashing red light means, the answer is simple: it acts just like a stop sign. A flashing red signal indicates that all drivers must come to a complete stop before entering the intersection, according to Florida Statute § 316.076. A driver must yield to all other vehicles and pedestrians who arrived before them or are already in the intersection.
To stay safe and avoid potential liability for an accident:
- Stop completely, even if the road seems clear.
- Look both ways for vehicles and pedestrians.
- Proceed only when it is safe to do so.
Ignoring a flashing red light can lead to right-of-way violations and accidents, such as a T-bone accident.
What Does a Flashing Yellow Light Mean?
Many drivers also find themselves asking, “What does a flashing yellow light mean?” A flashing yellow light at an intersection means drivers should proceed with caution, according to Florida Statute § 316.076. You are not required to stop, but you should slow down, look out for cross traffic, and be prepared to yield to other vehicles or pedestrians, if necessary. Even though you may technically have the right-of-way at a flashing yellow light, other drivers may not follow their required stopping obligations, so defensive driving is crucial.
What Should I Do When Traffic Lights Are Out Completely?
You may come upon an intersection where the traffic lights are out completely. When a traffic signal is completely out, such as during a power outage, all drivers are to treat the intersection like a four-way stop, according to Florida Statute § 316.1235. Every driver must stop before proceeding through the intersection, regardless of direction or timing. This helps avoid confusion and accidents, and it is especially important at major intersections or where visibility is limited.
Common Crashes That Occur When Intersection Lights Are Flashing
Flashing lights at intersections can be confusing, especially when drivers are not sure who has the right-of-way. This uncertainty often leads to split-second decisions that result in serious accidents. Even a small mistake can have dangerous consequences.
Some of the most common types of accidents at flashing light intersections include:
These accidents are frequent and can result in serious injuries or fatalities. Taking extra caution when approaching intersections with flashing lights and knowing how to respond can help reduce your risk on the road.
If you or a loved one is involved in an accident, a lawyer can be invaluable in handling your case. They can investigate which direction had the flashing red versus flashing yellow, gather surveillance footage and witness statements, and fight to secure damages for injuries and property damage.
Injured in An Auto Accident? A Gainesville Car Accident Lawyer at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers Can Help
Understanding what to do at intersections with flashing lights is important. It can keep you safe on the road and protect your rights. If you have ever wondered what to do at a flashing red or yellow light, remember: red means stop, and yellow means proceed with caution.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident at one of these intersections, you do not have to try handling a personal injury claim alone. Contact an experienced Gainesville car accident lawyer for help evaluating your case, gathering evidence, and pursuing the compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation today.
We have three convenient locations in Marion County and Alachua County, North Central Florida:
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville Office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258