Traffic Signals
The purpose of a traffic signal is to assign right-of-way to opposing movements of traffic at an intersection. As such, it may be necessary to install a traffic signal if the traffic volume increases and four-way stop signs do not lessen the problems.
Installing Traffic Signals
Before installing a traffic signal at an intersection, the following questions must be evaluated:
- Does the accident history indicate that a signal will reduce the number of accidents at an intersection?
- Does the number of school children crossing a busy street create confusion, congestion or hazardous conditions?
- Does the volume of vehicles entering an intersection create confusion or congestion?
- Is there an increasing demand for pedestrians to cross main streets?
- Is there so much traffic on main streets that it may be difficult for traffic on side streets to cross, and are accidents the result of this condition?
- Will the installation of a signal reduce overall congestion?
National Standards
National standards are used to evaluate intersections that may need a traffic signal. Properly placed traffic signals will decrease accidents and improve traffic flow.
Improvements
Traffic signal systems throughout the City of Tustin are upgraded on an ongoing basis and traffic flow is being improved on major arterials in Tustin by coordinating or synchronizing traffic signals, which allows vehicles to travel along the signalized streets with fewer stops.
Advantages of fully actuated traffic signals include reduced traffic delays, increased pedestrian safety, and adaptability to varying traffic flows.