Driving Tip
Number 35
29 August 2008
The true meaning of green
Next time you are approaching a junction with traffic lights, ask yourself what a green light means.
If your answer is ‘go’, you are only half right!
For full marks, you need to remind yourself that a green light at the junction does mean go, but only if it is safe to do so.
You also need to ask how long has it been green? The longer it has been green, the sooner it will change to amber. Amber doesn’t mean ‘speed up to get through the lights before they change’. It means stop. And after amber, the lights always go red.
These days, especially with congestion, more drivers are prepared to risk an amber light (known as ‘amber gamblers’), or even a red light to get through a junction.
That in turn means that we need to use an extra defensive driving technique. Even though the lights are ‘with you’, always glance both ways as you approach the junction, to satisfy yourself that you can get across safely.
By taking a moment to look both ways, even when the light is green, you might be able to spot somebody who is prepared to risk their safety – and yours – by ignoring the traffic signals.
And even if the light is green in your favour, keep using your rear mirror. It may be that somebody is following you too closely, in which case, by spotting the that the green light is about to turn amber in good time, you can slow down early, brake more gently and reduce the chances of a collision from behind.
All traffic lights are set according to the speed zones in which they are placed. If you are doing the correct speed limit, you will have adequate time to stop at an amber light.
ENDS
298 words
Media contacts:
IAM Press Office: 020 8996 9777, or visit the IAM website at ww.iam.org.uk
ISDN lines available
ENDS ALL
Charity No. 249002
Registered in England No.562530
Institute of Advanced Motorists Limited
Registered Office:
IAM House
510 Chiswick High Road
London
W4 5RG
Notes to Editors
1.The IAM is a member of the FIA (Federation Internationale de L'Automobile) and works closely with motoring clubs around the world on issues such as road safety, transport and the environment, and consumer protection. The IAM is grateful to the AIT / FIA Information Centre (OTA) for permission to publish this information that has been supplied by FIA member clubs in the countries listed
2.The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving and riding of more than 160,000 road users a year (full members, associates and commercial clients) in the UK and Ireland. Established in 1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving course. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging with the road-using public and influencing road safety policy. IAM Fleet, the corporate arm of the IAM, has two subsidiary companies, Drive & Survive and Fleet Ireland. It also operates IAM Pro-Drive.
4. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude. The “Driving Tips” provided by the IAM are part of our broader road safety mission and not intended as a substitute for the advanced driving course.
5. In January 2007, the IAM Motoring Trust was established as the research and advocacy arm of the IAM. The IAM Motoring Trust will undertake research, promote practical policies, act as an advocate for safer roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles and encourage responsible motoring through education and training.
