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Traffic signals
Flashing yellow arrow traffic signals minimize delays and improve safety
Flashing yellow arrow traffic signals feature a flashing yellow arrow, in addition to the standard red, yellow and green arrows. When illuminated, the flashing yellow arrow allows waiting motorists to make a left-hand turn after yielding to oncoming traffic. Otherwise, the new traffic signals work the same as traditional signals.
In December 2009, after extensive testing, the Federal Highway Administration authorized use of flashing yellow arrows nationwide.
A study conducted by the National Cooperative Highway Research Program determined that drivers had fewer crashes with flashing yellow left-turn arrows than with traditional yield-on-green signal configurations.
MnDOT plans to install the new flashing yellow arrow indicator (signal light) on most future traffic signal construction projects. Retrofitting existing signals to include flashing yellow arrows can be costly and will only be done on a limited basis, when necessary. More information.
- Flashing Yellow Left Turn Arrow brochure (PDF, 541 KB)
- This video shows the sequence for a signal using the flashing yellow left turn.