traffic light rules wa Page 986

In WA, traffic lights aren’t suggestions; a red means stop behind the line—full stop, no heroic lunges. Amber means stop if it’s safe to do so; blasting through to “make it” is a donation to the state’s revenue. Green means go if the intersection is clear, but you must give way to pedestrians and oncoming traffic when turning. A red arrow means no turn, a green arrow means you’re protected, and a flashing yellow means proceed with caution and give way as necessary. Left turn on red? Only where a sign specifically allows it, and you must come to a complete stop first. When in doubt, play it dull and legal; it beats explaining things to a magistrate on Monday.