Advanced green lights, which are represented by green arrows or flashing green signals, help to improve traffic flow in many areas. This type of light makes it easy for several cars in a row to turn left, which might otherwise be difficult without the presence of the advance. Not every intersection with traffic lights have advanced green lights, so it's always important to be vigilant about looking at the light — rather than assuming you know what it will be — before you make a move. Here are some different types of traffic tickets that you could get at an advanced green light.

Not Turning

If you aren't particularly familiar with the many different traffic signals that drivers must contend with, it's possible that you could face an advanced green light but not turn. This might be unlikely with a green arrow, but if you're at an older traffic light that simply brinks green to indicate that you can turn with the right of way, you might be unsure of how to proceed. Failing to turn at an advanced green will hold up many cars behind you and unnecessarily cause a traffic jam. If a police officer were to observe you failing to turn, you could earn a ticket.

Turning Too Late

Many advanced green lights come on at the start of the cycle. In other words, there are several seconds of advanced green, followed by a solid green. The latter signal still allows you to make a left turn, but you no longer have the right of way. In some areas; however, the advanced green will come after the solid green. If you were to see the advanced green and expect a solid green afterward, you might end up going through a red light to make your turn if you estimated incorrectly.

Turning When The Advance Is Inactive

At some intersections, the advanced green is in use only during certain times of the day. This allows cars to turn left with more ease during high-traffic times, such as morning and afternoon rush hour on weekdays. If you're used to seeing an advanced green signal and turn left as soon as the light turns green — only to realize that you're turning on a solid green because the advance isn't currently active — you'd be dangerously cutting in front of other vehicles. This could result in a traffic ticket. Following any ticket around an advanced green light, consult with a traffic violation attorney.

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