Information regarding traffic signs and signals.
Quick Answer: A flashing traffic signal means the normal traffic light cycle is not operating. In British Columbia, a flashing red light requires you to stop before proceeding when safe, a flashing yellow light means proceed with caution, and a flashing green light identifies a pedestrian-controlled intersection where drivers must be prepared to stop for pedestrians.
Every now and then, you will see them on a residential street: temporary plastic or corrugated yard signs, pushed into the grass on wire stakes, asking drivers to slow down because children are playing. They are always put up by residents with the absolute best of intentions. Frustrated by speeding traffic outside their front doors, neighbours are hoping to protect the kids on their block.
As a knowledgeable driver, you are likely aware of the three blanket speed limits that cover the province of British Columbia. These statutory limits are 80 km/h outside a municipality, 50 km/h within a municipality, and 20 km/h on a municipal lane. However, there is another official method for establishing a localized blanket speed zone: the use of an "Area" sign.
We’ve all been there: you’re driving on a Sunday, the road is perfectly paved, there isn't a worker in sight, but the orange 70 km/h signs are still up. Do you have to slow down? A recent BC Provincial Court decision, R. v. Markowsky, suggests that if the "reason" for the sign is gone, the legal requirement to obey it might be gone too.
A common point of confusion in cities like Vancouver is the intersection equipped with pedestrian-controlled lights on the main road and stop signs on the cross-street.
Question: When I want to turn right at a red light that has a "Right Turn Signal" sign, am I allowed to proceed when safe? Common online debates suggest you must wait for the green arrow at major intersections. Looking at SW Marine Drive and Cambie Street in Vancouver, the lack of a "No Right Turn on Red" sign leaves many drivers guessing. Here is the legal breakdown.
A woman pushing a child in a stroller and the driver of a van approach an intersection controlled by a traffic light with a pedestrian signal. Both signals are red. The driver is in the lane next to the two who arrives at the cross street and stops seconds before the driver arrives at the stop line.
Question: I was just wondering if you know the rules around the local traffic only signs? Is this sign enforceable? I have not found info in the ICBC signs section in the learning book or BC Highway code. I may be searching the wrong keyword or something.
Question: With all the power outages in the past few weeks there have been a lot of intersections where traffic lights are out. Would you please remind everyone of the 4-way stop procedure that it seems most have forgotten or never learned.
The next time you are at the front of the lineup waiting for a green light, watch the driver beside you. Many times when the traffic signal turns green they will immediately proceed without looking to the left or right for hazards or traffic already lawfully in the intersection.