Description
The HAWK pedestrian signal added to this location confuses most drivers, who have no idea what to do when the lights change from solid red (stop) to alternate flashing red (which means drivers can proceed if no pedestrians are in crosswalk). Most drivers don't know they can proceed on flashing red (if there are no pedestrians in the crosswalk), so traffic remains blocked unnecessarily until the signal goes dark.
How about posting the rules so people know what to do? Or at least a sign that says "Stop on flashing red, if no pedestrian, then proceed" or similar?
5 Comments
atlengdave (Registered User)
I received this message posted today on the Nextdoor Morningside/Lenox Park forum.
Many drivers are confused and don't know what to do at HAWK pedestrian signals. How will they be educated? Please see the posting below:
, Morningside/Lenox Park
I've called and written the DOT with no response except that they "don't have enough information." When the cross light for pedestrians near Monroe and Piedmont turns solid red, obviously one must stop for the pedestrian who needs to cross. Then the light starts flashing red. It's red, so I think red means stop and I wait until it has completely turned off before driving on. I am frustrating drivers behind me who honk if the flashing signal starts and I continue to sit there as I do. I in turn feel frustrated by the drivers who start driving despite the flashing red.
I don't know what the lawful thing to do is. Here is the link to the GA traffic laws regarding traffic signals.
http://law.justia.com/codes/georgia/2010...
In this section of the code, a steady red signal is referenced, as is a red arrow, but no mention can I find of a flashing red signal.
I ran into another flashing red signal today at Mt. Paran and Lake Forrest. It's a 4 way stop and there is a constant red flashing signal in all four directions. I assumed that is to point out to people that it is a 4 way STOP and they are to respect the STOP sign. As in 4 way stops, traffic stops for the stop sign and go in turn, so they are driving through the flashing red signal.
Anyone know what to do?
Thanks,
atlengdave (Registered User)
ATL311 (Registered User)
Gary McNay (Registered User)
ATL311 (Registered User)