The state transportation department is upgrading 12 hundred traffic signals in Louisiana to include flashing yellow left-turn arrows. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says a yellow flashing turn arrow lets motorists know they should yield to oncoming traffic when turning left.
“It’s a safety mechanism because turning left is a tricky maneuver for many drivers. The flashing yellow gives more of a warning then the green bulb.”
A study by Bradley University reveals flashing yellow arrows reduce left turn-related crashes by 32 percent. Mallet says hundreds of intersections in the Bayou State have been updated with the new configuration.
“Currently there are more than 900 installed across the state. And we’re looking to install 350 more.”
The $11 million project, which started seven years ago, has upgraded traffic signals to four options: red, yellow, flashing yellow arrow, and green. Mallet says the new configuration will help motorists think twice about oncoming traffic.
“The flashing yellow is more of a way to communicate with the drivers that you need to be careful here. Yellow means caution. The flashing yellow will grab your attention so if you’re turning left right here let’s be very cautious.”
The project is expected to be completed in two years.
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