The Highway Code sets out clear rules that apply in this situation
No one wants to get stuck at traffic lights(Image: Getty)
Getting stuck at some traffic lights that are seemingly refusing to change colour can be a nightmare for drivers. You may be unsure whether to move forward or just keep waiting, and you could get some angry blasts of the horn behind you if you don’t take action.
This can be particularly frustrating at a set of temporary traffic lights managing traffic coming in several directions. You may not be sure if the lights are not working or if it’s just a long time to wait until it’s your turn. Motoring experts at Auto Express have helped clarify the rules for motorists.
The rules are clear
Steve Walker, head of digital content with the publication, said: “By the letter of the law, you can’t drive through a red light under any circumstances. If a traffic light is stuck on red, it’s the responsibility of the authorities to fix it and/or get a police officer to direct traffic.”
The Highway Code lays down the law on this question in Rule 176. Drivers are expressly told: “You MUST NOT move forward over the white line when the red light is showing.
“Only go forward when the traffic lights are green if there is room for you to clear the junction safely or you are taking up a position to turn right.” However, Mr Walker said it may not be practical to just sit there if the lights really are just stuck on red.
He said: “In practice, motorists faced with a stuck red light could be waiting for days if they stick to these rules and a little common sense will probably need to be applied.”
‘Guilty of an offence’
The legislation that sets out the rules around driving through a red light is Section 36 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. The law mandates that road users must obey and relevant “traffic signs”.
Any driver who “Fails to comply with the indication given by the sign is guilty of an offence”. If you do decide drive through the red light, Mr Walker said to be very careful as you proceed.
‘You are taking a risk’
He said: “This is obviously going to be easier to do in some situations than others. If you can see far enough to be sure that there’s nothing coming in the other direction, it should be possible to negotiate a traffic light that’s stuck on red safely.”
But he reiterated that this is a risky business, and you may be better off finding another way around. He urged: “You do need to make absolutely sure that it is stuck on red.
“You are taking a risk – both in the eyes of the law and, potentially, your insurance company if an accident takes place. In lots of situations, it may be better to turn around and find another route.”
Proceed with great care
Rule 176 also informs drivers: “If the traffic lights are not working, treat the situation as you would an unmarked junction and proceed with great care.” This refers to when the traffic lights are out entirely, not just when they are stuck on red.
