Use Caution During Power Outages
Traffic crashes and winter storms can cause power failures that affect signals. Here’s what to do when traffic lights are not properly working:
- Treat the intersection as an all-way stop: the driver who stops first goes first.
- Before crossing the intersection, come to a full stop. Look both ways for other traffic, pedestrians and cyclists.When it is safe, drive cautiously through the intersection.
- If in doubt, yield to the driver on your right.
TripCheck Cameras
TripCheck cameras may not be operations during winter storms due to power outages and internet service failures. Extended camera outages are especially common in remote areas that take longer for utility crews to reach following a storm.
Be Alert at Railroad Crossings
Power outages can also affect railroad crossings. Railroad crossing signals have built-in backup battery power and should continue to operate for a short time during power outages. During a long term power outage or other problem, railroad-crossing arms will automatically move to the “down” position. Never drive around railroad-crossing arms in the down position. A train may be coming.
Use Headlights for Tunnels and Bridges
It may be more difficult to see tunnel entrances and bridge approaches if there is a power outage. Use your headlights whenever there is reduced visibility and be careful.