Introduction
Traffic signals can sometimes be confusing, especially when arrows are added to the red, yellow, and green lights we already know. One signal that drivers must understand well is the flashing yellow arrow. It doesn’t mean the same thing as a solid green arrow, and misunderstanding it can cause serious crashes.
What Does a Flashing Yellow Arrow Mean?
A flashing yellow arrow means:
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You are allowed to turn in the direction of the arrow.
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BUT you must first yield to oncoming traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians.
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Your turn is not protected — unlike with a solid green arrow.
How It’s Different from Other Arrows
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Solid Green Arrow: Your turn is protected. Oncoming traffic has a red light, so you may turn safely.
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Flashing Yellow Arrow: Your turn is permitted, but not protected. You must wait for a safe gap in traffic before turning.
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Solid Yellow Arrow: Your protected turn is ending — prepare to stop.
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Solid Red Arrow: No turns allowed in that direction.
How to Respond to a Flashing Yellow Arrow
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Approach slowly and enter the intersection only when clear.
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Look for oncoming traffic — cars going straight have the right-of-way.
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Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk.
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Complete your turn carefully when there is a safe opening.
Why Use Flashing Yellow Arrows?
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They help reduce wait times at intersections.
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They give drivers more chances to turn while keeping safety rules in place.
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They are clearer than older-style green circles, which confused drivers about when turns were safe.
Safety Reminders
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Never assume you can turn just because the arrow is flashing.
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Be patient — wait for a gap in traffic.
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Always check crosswalks before turning.
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Remember: the flashing yellow arrow gives you permission, but not priority.
Conclusion
The flashing yellow arrow allows you to turn left or right when it’s safe, but you must yield to others first. It’s a helpful tool for traffic flow, but it requires drivers to stay alert and use good judgment.