Traffic Lights
Traffic Light Sequence
Traffic lights control the flow of vehicles and pedestrians at junctions and crossings.
They operate in a set cycle of lights:
- Red
- Red and Amber
- Green
- Amber
- Red
What the Colours Mean
| Light | Meaning |
| Red | Stop and wait at the stop line. |
| Red and Amber | Stop and wait. Do not move off until the green light shows. |
| Green | Go if the way ahead is clear. |
| Amber | Stop unless you've already crossed the stop line or stopping might cause a collision. |
Approaching Traffic Lights
As you approach, use the MSM (Mirrors – Signal – Manoeuvre) and PSL (Position – Speed – Look) routines.
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Pay close attention to lane markings and position your vehicle early.
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Reduce your speed and be ready to stop.
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If the light is green, do not accelerate to “beat” it.
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Be prepared for it to change, especially if it has been green for a while.
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Green Filter Arrows
A green arrow allows you to proceed only in the direction shown, even if the main light is red.
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Only enter this lane if you intend to travel in the arrow’s direction.
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When turning left or right, give way to pedestrians already crossing.
If Traffic Lights Fail
If the lights are out or flashing amber:
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Proceed with great care.
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Treat the junction as unmarked — apply the ‘look, assess, decide, and act’ routine.
Advance Stop Lines
At some junctions, there are two white stop lines — the space between them is reserved for cyclists.
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When lights are amber or red, stop at the first white line and keep out of the cyclist area.
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If you’ve already crossed the first line when the signal changes, stop at the second line, even if you’re in the cyclist zone.
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When lights turn green, allow cyclists time and space to move off.
Some cities also have bus advance areas — treat these in the same way.
Special Traffic Lights
Special lights control traffic at locations such as:
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Airfields (low-flying aircraft)
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Swing or lifting bridges
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Emergency vehicle stations
Types
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Standard lights (red, amber, green): Follow normal rules.
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Flashing double red lights: Stop immediately and do not proceed while they’re flashing.
School Crossing Warnings
At some crossings, two alternating flashing amber lights warn of a school crossing point ahead.
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Reduce your speed and proceed carefully.
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Always be ready to stop for children or school crossing patrols.