What Should You Do When You’re Approaching Traffic Lights That Have Red and Amber Showing Together?
Have you ever been driving and noticed a traffic light displaying both red and amber at the same time? If so, you’re not alone in wondering what that means. Many drivers are unsure about what action to take in this situation. Don’t worry—we’re here to clear things up.
In this post, we’ll break down what you should do when you’re approaching traffic lights that have red and amber showing together. We’ll also look at why these lights behave this way, what the rules say, and how to respond safely and legally. Whether you’re new behind the wheel or just want a refresher, this guide’s got you covered.
Understanding UK Traffic Light Signals
Traffic lights are an essential part of keeping roads safe and organized. In the UK, they follow a specific sequence:
When red and amber are displayed at the same time, it’s not a green light to go just yet. Instead, it’s telling you to prepare to move because the green light is coming next. That’s a key detail that many drivers overlook.
So, What Should You Do When You See Red and Amber Together?
Here it is, plain and simple:
You should stay put.
Even though the amber light might tempt you to start rolling forward, both the red and amber lights together still mean you must not move your vehicle. The rules are clear: you can only go once the green light shows up. Think of this combination as a “get ready” signal—not a go.
Imagine you’re standing at the starting line of a race. The red and amber are like the announcer saying, “On your marks, get set…” You wouldn’t start running until you hear “Go!”, right? The same idea applies here.
Why This Signal Matters
You might wonder, “Why not just go when the road looks clear?” Good question. But moving before the light turns green can lead to serious problems:
Traffic lights work in a carefully timed cycle to keep everyone on the road—including you—safe. By jumping the gun, you could disrupt that system and put lives at risk.
What the Highway Code Says
The Highway Code—the official guide for UK drivers—makes it clear: when red and amber are shown together, you must stay behind the stop line. You can only begin moving when the green light appears.
This is covered under Rule 176. It states that the only time you’re allowed to pass the stop line is once the light turns green and it’s safe to proceed. So if you’re ever unsure, trust the Code—it’s the final word on how to handle any road situation.
Common Misconceptions Drivers Have
You’re not alone if you’ve misunderstood red and amber lights before. Let’s clear up a few common myths:
It’s better to wait two extra seconds than to regret rushing through a light.
What Happens If You Break This Rule?
You might be wondering, “What’s the worst that can happen?” Well, let’s look at the potential consequences if you go too early at a red and amber light:
Aside from the legal issues, there’s the personal effect. Imagine having to explain to your insurance company why you jumped a light or caused an accident. Not ideal, right?
Real-Life Example: A Costly Mistake
Let’s take the story of Ben, a 27-year-old driver from Manchester. One early morning, he approached a quiet intersection and saw the red and amber lights. Thinking no one was around, he decided to ease forward before the green light switched on.
What he didn’t see was a delivery van speeding through another lane. The crash wasn’t major, but the consequences were. He got a fine and three points—and saw his insurance premium skyrocket. All because he couldn’t wait a couple of seconds.
How to Handle Approaching Traffic Lights Like a Pro
Want to stay on the safe side? Here are a few simple tips:
By building these habits, you’ll become not just a good driver—but a great, responsible one. Other road users will appreciate it too.
Why Following This Rule Makes Driving Better for Everyone
You’re probably aware that following traffic rules keeps you safe. But did you know it also benefits others?
Every driver who respects red and amber signals helps reduce road confusion. It creates smoother traffic flow, minimizes risk, and builds overall confidence in our road systems. It’s teamwork, really. Think of it like a dance where everyone moves together in harmony—the fewer missteps, the safer and more elegant the performance.
Takeaways to Remember
There’s a lot to keep in mind when driving, but if you take away just one thing, let it be this:
When red and amber lights appear together, it’s your cue to get ready—but not to go. Wait until you see green before moving forward.
It might seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in safe driving. Timing is everything when it comes to traffic signals. Being patient for just a moment longer can prevent accidents and keep your driving record clean.
Next Time You’re Behind the Wheel…
Imagine you’re approaching an intersection. The lights go from red to red and amber. What should you do?
Now, you know the answer—you wait.
Next time that happens, take a deep breath, resist the urge to inch forward, and do the right thing. Not just because it’s the law, but because it’s the smart, safe move for everyone sharing the road with you.
After all, driving isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about doing it safely, smartly, and responsibly. And understanding what you should do when you’re approaching traffic lights that have red and amber showing together is a key part of that.
Drive safe, stay patient—and let the green light guide you ahead.