- Blinking green means the pedestrian signal is active; pedestrians have priority.
- Reduce speed, check for crossing pedestrians, and yield to those on the crosswalk.
- Different from blinking green arrow and other signals.
- Used in Canada, U.S., U.K., Australia, and New Zealand.
Most drivers know the basic rules of traffic signals: red means stop, yellow means prepare to stop safely, and green means proceed. However, there is a less well-known situation that can cause confusion—the intermittent green light.
This situation is not common in Romania, but you will encounter it frequently in other European countries and beyond. It is important to understand the meaning of this signal to drive safely wherever you are.
What an intermittent green light means
When the traffic light displays a green light that blinks on and off, this signals that the pedestrian signal is active. Do not confuse this situation with the blinking green arrow for right turns, which has a different meaning.
The blinking green light warns you that:
- Pedestrians have the right of way to cross
- The signal will soon change to red
- You must pay extra attention to pedestrians in the area
- Your speed should be reduced to be able to stop safely if necessary
How to react correctly
- Reduce your speed and be prepared to stop.
- Carefully check for pedestrians crossing or intending to cross.
- Give priority to pedestrians already on the crosswalk.
- Do not force crossing if the signal is about to change.
Where you may encounter this type of signal
Intermittent green lights are used in many countries around the world:
- Canada — this system has been used since the 1980s
- United States — in certain states
- United Kingdom — at some intersections with heavy pedestrian traffic
- Australia and New Zealand — standard system
Importance of this system
The intermittent green light system was implemented to:
- Pedestrian safety — provides a clear warning that pedestrians have priority
- Traffic flow — avoids abrupt stops by early warning
- Reduction of accidents — drivers are alerted to pedestrians’ presence
- Intersection efficiency — optimizes crossing time for pedestrians
Difference from other signals
It is important not to confuse the intermittent green light with:
- Flashing yellow — which indicates the signal is not functioning and normal right-of-way rules apply
- Flashing green arrow — which allows conditional turns based on opposing traffic
- Steady yellow — which warns that red is coming
Tips for Romanian drivers abroad
- Research the local traffic rules before you travel
- Be more attentive to traffic signals, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic
- Always respect pedestrian priority
- Adapt your speed to local traffic conditions
Understanding these rules will help you drive safely wherever you are and avoid uncomfortable situations or even accidents that can arise from not knowing the meaning of different types of signals.