The City is implementing a new type of traffic signal to provide safer left-turns for drivers that will help traffic flow better. The Flashing Yellow Arrow signals will replace the left arrow signals for left-turns at some intersections. The Flashing Yellow Arrow has been implemented successfully elsewhere.
View the following video from Santa Rosa to see how the flashing yellow left-turn signal will operate:
Credits: City of Santa Rosa
Benefits of Flashing Yellow Arrow
- Reduces delays for drivers
- Can reduce left-turn collisions by up to 20%
- Allows more opportunities for left turns to be made compared to existing signals
- Consistency with other jurisdictions in California
How to Use a Flashing Yellow Arrow
It's simple! A Flashing Yellow Arrow means to first YIELD to oncoming vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians, then turn left with caution. Remember, oncoming vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians will have the right-of-way. The Flashing Yellow Arrow will change to a solid yellow arrow — that means what it has always meant, that the light is about to turn red and you should prepare to stop.
Signal Display Changes
![Flashing Yellow Signal Traditional to New Flashing Yellow Signal Traditional to New](https://cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_3037789/Image/Engineering/FlashingYellowSignalOld-New.png)
Location of the First Flashing Yellow Left-Turn Signals
- Signals will be installed starting this Winter at the following locations:
- Camino Colegio & East Cotati Avenue
- Commerce Boulevard & Alison Avenue
- Commerce Boulevard & Avram Avenue
- Golf Course Drive & Country Club Drive
- Golf Course Drive & Labath Avenue
- Snyder Lane & Eleanor Avenue