LANSDALE BOROUGH- This week in Traffic Talk, we’re highlighting Red Lights, or traffic control signals. These are covered under Section 3112 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code. 

Much of this is common sense and things we all learned when we took our driver’s license test, but it never hurts to review. 

Red Light:

• Come to a complete stop before the intersection
• Remain stopped until the light turns green
• You may turn right on red, but only after coming to a complete stop and making sure it’s safe to proceed

Turning on Red in Pennsylvania:

• Stop behind the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection
• Yield to all traffic, pedestrians, and bicyclists
• If a “No Turn on Red” sign is posted, you cannot turn on red
• If there is no sign prohibiting a turn on red, you may turn right—but only after coming to a complete stop and yielding safely
• Clarification: We received a question about this in an earlier post: If you see a “Right Turn Signal” sign and there is no “No Turn on Red” sign, you may turn right on red. Be sure to stop first and yield to all cars, bikes, and pedestrians

Remember: Just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s automatic—safety always comes first!

Yellow Light:

• When the light turns yellow, slow down and prepare to stop
• Do not speed up to try to beat the red light
• If you are too close to stop safely, proceed cautiously through the intersection

Key Takeaway: Trying to beat a red or yellow light puts everyone at risk, especially pedestrians and cross traffic. A few extra seconds isn’t worth a crash. Stop on red, slow on yellow, and stay alert

Green Light:

• Go when it is clear, but do not assume the intersection is automatically safe
• Take a quick glance left and right before entering the intersection
• Making this a habit helps you stay aware of pedestrians, bicycles, and other vehicles

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PA Title 75 §3112 – Traffic-Control Signals
For the entire law, CLICK HERE

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