Traffic signals do more than just regulate traffic flow—they determine whether an intersection is safe or prone to accidents. Recent research highlights the importance of proper signal timing in reducing crashes, particularly at intersections with high traffic volume. As Pennsylvania deals with increasing traffic fatalities and moves forward with federally funded efforts to retime traffic lights in Harrisburg, it’s worth understanding why this initiative could be a lifesaver.
Why Signal Timing Matters
At any given moment, thousands of drivers across the country are making split-second decisions at intersections. When a traffic light turns yellow, drivers must choose whether to stop abruptly or proceed through the intersection. These choices are shaped by the length of the yellow light and the clearance interval—the period when all signals are red before cross-traffic gets a green light.
According to a nationwide study on signal timing and crash rates, intersections with properly calibrated clearance intervals experience fewer rear-end and right-angle crashes. In contrast, intersections with inadequate clearance times force drivers into dangerous scenarios where abrupt stopping can lead to rear-end collisions, while crossing against red lights increases the risk of side-impact crashes.
What the Data Shows About Short Clearance Intervals
The study found that the intersections with the highest crash rates had three factors in common:
- Shorter clearance intervals that didn’t allow enough time for vehicles to exit safely.
- Wider cross streets, which increased the time needed to clear the intersection.
- Lower average crossing speeds, meaning vehicles took longer to pass through but weren’t given enough time.
When clearance intervals are too short, some drivers are caught in a no-win scenario: if they stop, they risk getting rear-ended. If they go, they may not make it through before opposing traffic starts moving.
Pennsylvania’s Plan to Improve Traffic Safety
Recognizing the importance of signal timing, Pennsylvania recently received federal funding to retime traffic signals in Harrisburg. This initiative aims to modernize outdated signal systems and ensure that clearance intervals align with current traffic conditions. While the full implementation will take time, this move signals a broader shift toward roadway safety improvements based on science.
What This Means for Drivers & Pedestrians
For pedestrians and cyclists, longer clearance intervals can help prevent collisions with vehicles that would otherwise be caught in the middle of an intersection when the light changes.
For drivers, properly timed signals mean:
- Fewer instances of sudden braking at yellow lights.
- A reduced risk of running a red light unintentionally.
- More predictable and safer traffic flow.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured at a Dangerous Intersection
Safe roads begin with informed drivers—and holding those responsible for unsafe conditions accountable. Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC advocates for those injured due to poor roadway design, improper signal timing, and other hazardous traffic conditions. If you or a loved one has been in an accident at a high-risk intersection, you deserve to recover everything you’ve lost. With more than a century of history and tens of millions in recovery, we can help.
Contact HHR today for a free consultation to discuss your case and hear your legal options. Call (888) 498-3023 or contact us online to get started.