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Traffic signals
The Engineering Department tries to ensure that all of the traffic signals are in operable condition. If you notice an inoperable traffic signal or burned out bulb, please report it to the Engineering Department at (772) 871-5177.
Here are answers to some common questions we receive about traffic signals:
Do cameras mounted on traffic signals record, and can I get a copy of such a recording?
No, the cameras in place throughout the city are utilized for vehicle detection and traffic monitoring only. The cameras are not equipped to tape or record.
Why does it take so long for a signal to change?
Traffic engineers attempt to move the greatest amount of vehicles in the shortest amount of time. Signals are usually programmed so that each intersection is timed to work with other intersections. When fewer cars wait for a signal to change on a minor street, a greater number of vehicles can move on the intersecting major street. Based on traffic volume data, it is often better to prolong a red signal governing the minor street for a greater length of time causing some traffic to stack up, while allowing a greater number of vehicles to travel through a green signal on the major street.
Why doesn't the traffic signal change when I push the pedestrian button?
Traffic signals are programmed to change at certain intervals. Pushing the pedestrian button informs the signal controller that you are waiting to cross the street. At the next programmed interval the traffic signal will change and allow enough time for you to cross safely.
What are the "'warrants" for a traffic signal?
In order to assure traffic signals are installed only where necessary, a series of 11 warrants have been developed and accepted by traffic engineers throughout the country. Traffic signal warrants are contained in a manual developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, entitled "Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices" (MUTCD). For state approval, a signal must meet one of the warrants presented in the MUTCD.
Will a traffic signal reduce crashes at an intersection?
Traffic signals don't always prevent crashes. In many instances, the total number of crashes and injuries increase after a signal is installed. Installation of a traffic signal may reduce right-angle collisions, but there may still be an increase in total crashes caused by a substantial increase in rear-end collisions.
In determining whether to install a signal, traffic engineers compare existing conditions against nationally accepted minimum standards. At intersections where standards have been met, signals generally operate effectively with good public compliance. Where standards are not met, compliance generally lags resulting in additional hazards. While a properly placed traffic signal improves the flow of traffic and decreases crashes, an unnecessary one can be a source of danger and annoyance to all who use the intersection.
Can you synchronize the traffic signals along a particular roadway?
Traffic signal synchronization is a method of timing groups of traffic signals along an arterial roadway to provide smooth movement of traffic with minimal stops. The quality of the resulting progression is a function of the spacing of the signals, the prevailing speeds, the amount of traffic coming in and out of driveways between traffic signals, the uniformity of intersection sizes, and the cycle length.
What should a driver do when approaching an intersection in which traffic lights are not working?
Florida Statutes, Section 316.1235, provides that the driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection in which the traffic lights are inoperative shall stop, except when directed to proceed by a police officer.
The driver shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, or if none; before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none; then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering the intersection.
After having stopped, the driver shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from another highway, or which is approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time when the driver is moving across or within the intersection. The traffic signal malfunction should be reported to the police as soon as possible.
How do pedestrian signals work?
A pedestrian signal allows a safe way for pedestrians to cross the street at signalized intersections. The pedestrian signal, when activated, provides time for the pedestrian to enter the street on the steady "Walk" signal and finish crossing the street on the flashing "Don't Walk" signal. The pedestrian signal is activated by a pedestrian detector push-button, which causes the controller to operate a pre-programmed timed sequence of steady "Walk" and flashing "Don't Walk" indications.
Pedestrian signal indications consist of " Walk" and "Don't Walk" signals or international symbols displaying a person walking for the "Walk" indication and an open-palm hand for the "Don't Walk" indication. The " Walk" or person walking symbol is displayed in white and the "Don't Walk" or hand symbol is displayed in orange.
The pedestrian signal sequence begins when the " Walk" indication is illuminated. This sequence should be at least 4 to 7 seconds long and allow enough time to leave the curb and begin crossing the street before the clearance interval begins. At locations where large numbers of pedestrians are crossing, a longer " Walk" interval may be warranted.
The pedestrian clearance interval consists of a flashing "Don't Walk" indication. During this interval the pedestrian should complete his crossing, however; he should not begin crossing on the flashing "Don't Walk" signal.
The "Don't Walk" indication, steadily illuminated, means that a pedestrian should not enter the street in the direction of the pedestrian signal.
The design requirements for a pedestrian signal require that a pedestrian signal be mounted at least 8 feet, but no higher than 10 feet, above the sidewalk. The pedestrian signal shall be so positioned and adjusted as to provide maximum visibility to the pedestrian. The pedestrian detector push-button is usually found on the pole under the pedestrian signal head that faces the crossing direction. A sign shall be mounted above the detector unit explaining its purpose and the positioning of the push-button should clearly indicate which crosswalk signal is activated by each push-button.
Warning: Both pedestrians and drivers must be particularly alert while pedestrians are crossing, especially when "Right turn on Red" movements are allowed.