New signals reduce confusion, traffic crashes

Drivers traveling the Paris District highways are seeing a new type of left-turn signal with the introduction of a flashing yellow arrow that traffic experts say will reduce confusion, improve safety and move more vehicles through an intersection.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is installing Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) signals at locations already equipped with "permissive" left-turn lanes and signals. A permissive left-turn operation is one where vehicles do not have a protected left turn and must yield to oncoming traffic. These FYA signals will eventually replace the traditional circular green signal at some left turns commonly used throughout the state.

Research shows that the new FYA signal is safer, more efficient and presents a more consistent approach to signalization for left-turn lanes. TxDOT recently changed its traffic control device standards to reflect national changes, including the use of the FYA signal system.

"Based on recent safety studies, the flashing arrow left-turn signal reduces traffic crashes for those vehicles turning left at busy intersections," said Darius Samuels, Transportation Engineer for the Paris District Traffic Office "Sometimes motorists are confused about when to turn with the standard green circular traffic signal. The new FYA signal is easier for drivers to understand."

FYA signals will be placed at certain left-turn lanes in signalized intersections and contain a flashing yellow arrow as well as a steady green, yellow and red arrow.

Currently in the Paris District there are two FYA signal systems installed:

Intersection of SH 56 and SH 121 in Fannin County
Intersection of SH 11 and FM 2297 in Hopkins County

These new displays are similar to standard traffic signals.

A steady green arrow allows the driver to make a protected left turn.

A flashing yellow arrow allows the driver to turn left, but alerts the driver to yield to oncoming traffic.

A steady yellow arrow alerts the driver that the signal is about to turn red and they should prepare to stop or safely complete the turn.

A steady red arrow requires the driver to stop.

The FYA system will be gradually introduced across the state and the nation as new signals are installed and existing signals are replaced.

Flashing Yellow Arrow Signal 

Steady red arrow = Stop. No left turns allowed.
 
Steady yellow arrow = Prepare to stop. 

Flashing yellow arrow = Left turns allowed, but must yield to oncoming traffic.
 
Steady green arrow = Left turns allowed and protected.

Watch how to video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xC2xDu6Jrg

Visit http://www.txdot.gov/safety/tips/yellow.htm for more information on the FYA signal system.

For more information, call TxDOT Paris District PIO Tray Turner at (903) 737-9213.

The Texas Department of Transportation

The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation across the state. TxDOT and its 11,000 employees are committed to working with others to provide safe and reliable transportation solutions for Texas by maintaining a safe system, addressing congestion, connecting Texas communities, and being a Best in Class state agency. Find out more at www.txdot.gov. Fan us on Facebook www.facebook.com/txdot. Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/txdot.