The Myth of Repeating Your High Beams to Change a Red Light

As a truck driver working the night shift, I encounter countless red lights on my route. Unfortunately, flashing my high beams does not change the light. I have even tried jumping out of the truck to manually press the crosswalk button, which is risky but always effective.

Many drivers wonder if they can somehow influence the traffic light by flashing their high beams. This belief is similar to the infamous question of whether roller-skating pigs can fly. Traffic lights operate based on electronic detection and fixed timing, and flashing lights or honking horns are simply the actions of impatient drivers.

Let's explore the reasons why straightening your high beams won't change a red light and debunk the myth once and for all.

How Traffic Lights Work

Traffic lights are designed to respond to various triggers, but the primary method for changing them is the presence of large vehicles like trucks, buses, or firetrucks that contain specialized equipment. Modern traffic lights are equipped with hidden sensors, usually beneath the road surface, which detect the weight and movement of the vehicle. The lights can also adjust based on traffic demand and timing, typically managed by smart systems.

There are some instances where traffic lights respond to specific frequencies of light, often used by emergency vehicles. However, this is an advanced feature that not every traffic light has. For standard passenger vehicles, the headlights alone are not bright or consistent enough to prompt the light to change.

Special Cases for Emergency Vehicles

Emergency vehicles, such as firetrucks, are equipped with strobe lights that communicate with the traffic lights. Firetrucks have a special strobe light that sends a coded signal to a receiver mounted on the traffic light control box. This coded signal informs the traffic light system that a firetruck is approaching, and the lights are programmed to prioritize that specific lane. This feature is crucial because firetrucks, being heavy and not equipped to stop or accelerate quickly, need to maintain speed during emergencies.

The signal from a firetruck is highly specific and operates at a certain frequency that standard vehicle headlights cannot mimic or trigger. Even devices sold to mimic this signal are not effective and may not be legal in your jurisdiction.

Conclusion

So, can your high beams change a red light? Unless you are a firetruck or other emergency vehicle with the necessary equipment, the answer is no. The traffic light system is designed to respond to specific triggers, and normal headlights are not potent enough to initiate a change.

Remember, patience is key when dealing with traffic lights. If you are in a hurry, consider alternative routes or plan your schedule accordingly to avoid unnecessary stress. And always be aware of and follow local traffic laws and regulations.