Traffic Signals
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.
RED means STOP. Wait behind the stop line on the carriageway until GREEN shows
RED and AMBER also means STOP. Do not pass the stop line until GREEN shows
GREEN means go IF THE WAY IS CLEAR. Take extra care if you intend to turn left or right, and give way to pedestrians who are crossing
AMBER means STOP. You may go on only if the amber appears after you have crossed the stop line or are so close to it that to pull up might cause an accident
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
Signs may be placed with signals to qualify the meaning of the full green signal where movements through a junction are restricted
If movement is allowed in one direction only, the full green signal is normally replaced by a green arrow. This may be supplemented by a sign to reinforce the message
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
Additional white light signals may be provided for tram drivers
Traffic signals that have an advance green signal for cycles.
Typically used where cycles are waiting in the middle of a junction to complete a two-stage cycle turn.
Light signals for the control of pedal cycles. RED, AMBER and GREEN have the same meaning as at normal traffic signals
Wig-Wag Signals
Wig-wag signals are used at locations that if a driver were to continue they would be placed in immediate danger, for example the road suddenly ending due to a lifting bridge. Therefore not even emergency vehicles can proceed past the signals unlike normal traffic signals. Wig-wag signals can be found at level crossings; airfields; fire, ambulance, or police stations. Wig-wag signals are no longer prescribed to be used at tunnel entrances but there may be cases where they are still used. Below are examples of Wig-wag signals.
If no lantern is illuminated, traffic may proceed. If used at a level crossing, traffic should take care as the signal could potentially have failed.
The amber light has the same meaning as at standard traffic signals
Alternating red lamps mean that traffic MUST NOT proceed under ANY circumstances
If no lantern is illuminated, traffic may proceed. If used at a level crossing, traffic should take care as the signal could potentially have failed.
The amber light has the same meaning as at standard traffic signals
Alternating red lamps mean that traffic MUST NOT proceed under ANY circumstances
If no lantern is illuminated, traffic may proceed. If used at a level crossing, traffic should take care as the signal could potentially have failed.
The amber light has the same meaning as at standard traffic signals
Alternating red lamps mean that traffic MUST NOT proceed under ANY circumstances