UK Traffic Lights Explained: The Definitive Guide

In most cases, in addition to the primary signals at the stop line, there are duplicate signals, known as secondary signals, located on the opposite side of the junction. If the primary signal is not working, you must obey the secondary signal as if it were the primary signal. Low-level cycle signal may be used as a repeater or as an early release function mounted on the same post as a traffic signal or full-size cycle signal.

• You should stay on the approach side until you see a big enough gap in your lane on the other side.
• At some intersections, you’ll encounter traffic lights with an additional green filter arrow.
• It is also relatively common for a learner driver to focus primarily on the red light and not notice the green filter light is illuminated allowing you to proceed.

Green filter light illuminated

You must proceed slowly and with caution and only continue when safe to do so. Advanced stop lines such as the images above allow for cyclists to stop ahead of other vehicles in a bay often in a alternative colour to the road. All traffic must stop at the first line when the lights are red and avoid entering the cycle bay when stationary. Do not enter that lane unless you want to go in the direction of the arrow.

You may proceed in the direction of the green arrow when it, or the full green light shows. Give other traffic, especially cyclists, time and room to move into the correct lane. If you are waiting to turn right and the red light illuminates, ensure you exit the junction by turning right when the remaining oncoming vehicles have dispersed.

It is also relatively common for a learner driver to focus primarily on the red light and not notice the green filter light is illuminated allowing you to proceed. A filter light may illuminate before or after the full green phase. Ensure you keep an eye on the filter light as well as the main phase lights.

Traffic signals

When approaching traffic lights, you should watch them carefully and ensure you are positioned in the correct lane, depending on where you intend to go. If a red light appears, you must stop at the line and wait for the green light before moving off. If a steady amber light appears, you should prepare to stop, but if you are close or about to pass the stop line, you can proceed.

Whether you’re preparing for your DVSA theory test, revising the Highway Code, or simply brushing up on your road safety knowledge, the subject of traffic lights is vital. Traffic lights are a cornerstone of road safety, controlling traffic flow and ensuring motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users share the roads safely. Technically it’s not illegal to block a junction unless prohibitions are in force such as the yellow box. Other advisory notices such as https://www.srl-solarplus.co.uk/ ‘Keep Clear‘ road markings may also be in place. However, blocking a junction impedes traffic flow, so only enter it when you are certain you can clear it – even if your light is green.

When a green light is showing, you may proceed once the way ahead is clear. All light controlled pedestrian crossings use the same light sequence as the traffic light sequence detailed above with the exception of the Pelican crossing. Where the Pelican crossing differentiates is with the flashing amber phase. The flashing amber allows vehicles to proceed only if the crossing is clear and safe to continue. The newer more efficient Puffin crossing is gradually replacing the older Pelican crossings.

Try not to be caught in the middle of an intersections when the traffic lights change. You should stay on the approach side until you see a big enough gap in your lane on the other side. Approach traffic lights at a speed that allows you to stop if the colour changes before you reach the intersection. In addition to level crossings, these signals may be used at other locations, such as lifting bridges, airfields or fire stations.

See pedestrian crossing for further information on the types of crossing and light sequences. The general traffic light sequence in the UK is red, red and amber, green, steady amber and then back to red. 2 However, the traffic light sequence can differ slightly depending on the type of pedestrian crossing you are approaching. During a driving test, dealing with traffic lights will require a similar technique to dealing with junctions.

At some intersections, you’ll encounter traffic lights with an additional green filter arrow. If a green filter arrow appears, you can proceed if it’s safe to do so in the direction shown by the arrow, even if the other signals are showing red. These arrows are usually positioned next to the main traffic light. If a green light appears on the traffic light, it signals vehicles to go or proceed, but only if the way ahead is clear. Before moving off, watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and other road users, especially when turning left or right at the junction. Traffic filter lights can be located anywhere including box junctions.

The MSPSL (Mirror, Signal, Position, Speed and Look) routine must be applied. A good level of anticipation and planning is also required. Also traffic lights at pedestrian crossings for instance, if in the distance you see people waiting, as you approach there is a high probability the lights will change. A green traffic filter light allows traffic to proceed in the direction of the arrow.

You are then advised to continue driving through the intersection. Whilst learning to drive, you will come across many traffic lights. The UK traffic lights sequence explained here is an essential part of learning to drive and the theory test.

Running a red light is obviously dangerous and on may traffic lights, cameras are now fitted. There are very few exemptions for running a red light and even a learner driver may find themselves with 3 penalty points on their provisional licence and a fine of £60. A red light camera can even be triggered if your vehicle stops only slightly over the white line. Of course, this would also result in a driving test failure. If turning right and your green filter light is not illuminated or it distinguishes, you can still proceed providing the full phase green light is illuminated. You must however give way to oncoming vehicles and wait at the point of turn.

Although you may turn right on a full green signal, a right-turn GREEN ARROW showing at the same time indicates that turning right should be easier. Always check that opposing traffic has stopped before proceeding. If the full green is replaced by an ahead or left-turn arrow, you must wait until the right-turn arrow shows before you turn right. At signalled roundabouts you MUST NOT enter the box unless you can cross over it completely without stopping.

Light signals for the control of pedal cycles (alternative types). RED, AMBER and GREEN have the same meanings as at other traffic signals. If a green arrow is shown with a red signal and the way is clear, you may go, but only in the direction shown by the arrow.

A directional green filter arrow means that you have priority over traffic as their lights will be on red when you make the turn. As with all junctions be aware of pedestrians and cyclists whilst making the turn. Just because you have priority, there is a possibility of another vehicle, cyclist or pedestrian crossing or being where they shouldn’t be. Although understanding traffic the light sequences is reasonably simple, greater challenges often arise when dealing with other road users and pedestrians at traffic lights. It is of course important to obey traffic light signals, but equally important to have a constant awareness of what is around you. Cyclists and pedestrians in particular can be unpredictable around busy light controlled junctions.