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DGT Glossary
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Traffic light

A device regulating traffic with red, amber and green lights. It precedes vertical signs and road markings, but not officers’ directions, temporary signs or beaconing.

Definition

Traffic lights regulate traffic at intersections, pedestrian crossings, level crossings and reversible lanes. The main lights are: red (mandatory stop), steady amber (stop if you can do so safely), green (proceed with care), flashing amber (caution, may pass), and flashing red (level crossing or works: mandatory stop).

Key facts

  • Article 133 order: officers; temporary signs and beaconing, delineation devices and beaconing signs; traffic lights; vertical signs; road markings.
  • Steady amber: stop before the light unless you're so close braking would be unsafe.
  • Red: mandatory stop before the stop line, or before entering the intersection if no line.
  • Running a red light: serious offence, €200 fine and 4 points.

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