Traffic lights and signals: rules and meaning

Traffic light signals include all devices that use lights to regulate traffic, such as traffic lights and electronic road signals. Their purpose is to manage traffic flow, impose rules, and improve road safety.

Standard traffic lights use three colors. Red means stop before the stop line, without entering the intersection or pedestrian crossing. Yellow warns that the light is about to turn red and requires stopping, unless the vehicle is too close to stop safely; in that case, the driver must clear the intersection quickly. Green allows movement, but only if the driver can pass through the intersection without stopping inside it. Even on green, drivers must give way to pedestrians and cyclists crossing, and to other vehicles when turning.

There are also lane-specific traffic lights with arrows indicating allowed directions, and signals for public transport using different symbols but with similar meanings. Pedestrian traffic lights use a human figure: red means do not cross, green allows crossing, and yellow means clear the crossing quickly. Cyclists may have dedicated signals with a bicycle symbol that follow the same rules as vehicle signals.

Reversible lane signals use a red X to prohibit entry and a green arrow to allow passage. Vehicles must not stop under these signals. A flashing yellow light indicates danger and requires drivers to proceed with caution and reduced speed, respecting priority rules.

If a traffic light is not working or shows abnormal signals, drivers must proceed with extreme caution, reduce speed, and consider that other directions may have the right of way. If other functioning signals are present, they must be followed.

Light signals may also include electronic variable message signs displaying information such as speed limits or warnings. These must be reliable and used only for relevant driving information.

For the theory exam, it is essential to understand the correct behavior for each light color, remember that green does not guarantee a free path through an intersection, and always pay attention to other road users.