New traffic lights hurt
We recently have had the traffic signals in this area changed with the street improvement and we have already seen an accident related to this change. The following table was found at the Oregon DMV regarding the new lights. Please be aware of this change.
Many are accustomed to the understanding that it is safe to turn when you have a green or yellow arrow on a single column traffic light. This is no longer the case and that is what is confusing some drivers. Instead of spending money on ‘feel good’ signs installed into the concrete up and down Sandy Blvd. describing the name of the traffic reconstruction project, I think that money would have been much better spent on simply posting the following table on these street signs.
I think we have a lot of people that will have trouble adjusting to this single column signal after years of using the dual column single of similar purpose. If you are a pedestrian or driver please be aware that some are not and probably will not be for another year as they adjust to this change.
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A solid red arrow means STOP. Drivers turning left must stop.* |
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A solid yellow arrow means stop if it is safe to do so. |
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A flashing yellow arrow means turns are permitted, but you must first yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians and then proceed with caution. |
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A solid green arrow means turn left. Oncoming traffic must stop. Do not go straight. |