Flashing Beacons
Warning of hazards ahead
Flashing beacons (sometimes called flashers or flashing lights) are frequently
requested because folks believe that they will slow down traffic. However,
the real purpose of flashers is to attract attention to unexpected hazards.
What are the appropriate conditions for flashing lights?
A flashing beacon is a very effective device for warning of unexpected
or hazardous conditions not readily visible to drivers. One of the more
common locations where flashers are effective is above a stop sign controlled
intersection, located just beyond a curve, hidden from the view of approaching
motorists.
Is there a flip side, perhaps a situation where a flasher should not
be used?
Immediately after seeing a flasher, drivers must consistently see an unusual
condition which requires special attention. The condition must be perceived
as serious enough to justify special attention. For any traffic control
device to be effective, it must command the respect of motorists. If it
seems arbitrary or unnecessary, drivers tend to ignore it.
Then there are problems associated with the installation of unnecessary
flashers?
Unwarranted flashing beacons tend to lose much of their
effectiveness. After continually being alerted to a condition which does
not appear to be truly unusual, research has shown that drivers stop
'seeing' the flashing beacon. This can result in a disregard for all
beacons, even
those that are truly needed.
If I think there is a problem and a flashing beacon isn't the answer,
what
should I do?
Contact the appropriate public agency, the Washington
State Department of Transportation regarding state highways, or your city
or county public works department regarding local roadways. Ask the traffic
engineers to look at the situation. Ask them about lesser forms of traffic
control that might apply. When requesting a flashing beacon, don't be
surprised if the traffic engineer seems skeptical or difficult to convince;
it's for good reason. It is essential to prove that there is a problem
which can be solved by installing a flashing beacon before one should
be installed. It is of the utmost importance that flashing beacons be
kept to a minimum if a high degree of respect is to be maintained for
flashers that are truly needed.
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