You are driving out of a side street onto a really busy 4 lane road. There is a traffic light equipped with vehcile sensors and a sign that says "No turn on red". You have sat at the light for a good 5+ minutes and realize the light is stuck. There are 3 or 4 cars behind you. People behind you being to blow thier horns. How do you get out of this situation without breaking the law or the jaw of the guy behind you?
(That last part's a joke, but this is a serious question)
2007-03-24 10:01:23 · 7 answers · asked by todvango 6 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Safety
Well duh, follow the laws! I am asking if anyone knows what the law is in this situation. (You can respond for your state, but to be specific I am in Ohio.)
2007-03-24 10:22:59 · update #1
^^^ guess this would be an answer you may hear in the court if you happen to cause an accident this way :)
Problem is - drivers on the main road do not know your light is not working, and not going to follow this rule. All way stop is possible only when ALL drivers know it's an all way stop.
In reality you just find an opening and jump there, I'm not sure this is legal, but that's the only real option I see here. Laws can't possibly cover all life situations.
2007-03-24 17:36:14 · answer #1 · answered by Misha 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
In Manitoba, Canada, a mal-functioning traffic light is to be treated as a 4-way stop sign. However, keep in mind, that if your side is stuck on red, the other side is probably stuck on green and these drivers may not be aware of the malfunction, and keep going. I would make the turn on the red light, making sure to yield to all other traffic, in order to avoid an accident. No cop in his right mind would ticket you for that, and if he does, a judge will let you off, especially if you have witnesses (cars behind you).
2007-03-24 18:52:23 · answer #2 · answered by Louis C 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A traffic light is an aid, when it's malfunctioning you can cross the intersection it is up to local authorities to have all signs in proper working condition.
2007-03-24 17:34:56 · answer #3 · answered by Curious George 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it is a case of the traffic lights are not working, you should follow the four way stop.
2007-03-24 22:25:17 · answer #4 · answered by David L 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Treat it like a malfuntioning traffic signal per the laws of your state.
2007-03-24 17:10:07 · answer #5 · answered by eric l 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i would go ahead and turn but write down the street name and contact the city mayor or write a letter to city hall stating that something is wrong with the light.
2007-03-24 18:05:45 · answer #6 · answered by mycoupes 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't know about you but in Vancouver we have buttons at every intersection for pedestrians. Simply get out of your car, walk over to the sidewalk.. push the button, get back in your car and wait the 5 seconds until it changes.
2007-03-24 17:09:05 · answer #7 · answered by Jamie N 1 · 2⤊ 1⤋