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Traffic lights
You might have encountered a simple set of traffic lights already, perhaps guided by your instructor. However, as you gain more experience and drive to new places, you will encounter different and more complex sets of lights. You now need to start taking responsibility for your actions at the lights.
The first set of traffic lights was installed outside the Houses of Parliament in 1868. the traffic lights that we are used to were invented in the USA in 1912. There are different systems around the world but they all have one thing in common ... Red means STOP.
Most lights are still made from glass with a bulb placed behind it but modern lights using 'light emitting diodes' are rapidly replacing them.
Unless you are faced with an emergency situation, you must always obey the traffic light signals - this means that you can only go through the lights when they are green (and only then if it is safe to do so). This section gives an overview of the lights that you will encounter (with the exception of pedestrian crossings which are covered in their own section).
As you approach traffic lights try to anticipate what they are likely to do when you arrive. If they have been green for a long time, they might turn red. Use your hazard routine on approach, making sure that you select the best lane for your intended direction.
Make sure you can stop safely if the amber light shows.
Of course, traffic lights arn't the only tome you are controlled - police and traffic wardens can also request you to stop ...
Traffic lights
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