What Should You Do When You’re Approaching Traffic Lights That Have Red and Amber Showing Together?
When you’re behind the wheel, there’s a lot to keep an eye on—other cars, road signs, and of course, traffic lights. But what happens when you roll up to a traffic signal and it’s showing both the red and amber lights at the same time? It’s a moment that can leave even experienced drivers second-guessing. So, let’s break it down together in a simple way: What should you do when you’re approaching traffic lights that have red and amber showing together?
Understanding traffic light signals might seem basic, but these moments are where confusion—and sometimes accidents—can happen. Whether you’re a new driver or just brushing up on the rules, this blog will guide you step-by-step through how to handle this specific traffic signal with confidence.
What Does Red and Amber Together Actually Mean?
Let’s start with the basics. Typically, when we think of traffic lights, we think: red means stop, green means go, and amber (or yellow) means slow down or prepare to stop. But what about when the red and amber lights appear at the same time?
This combo is actually part of the standard traffic light sequence in places like the UK and some other countries. When red and amber lights are shown together, they’re telling you one clear thing: Get ready to go, but don’t move just yet.
Think of this moment as a warning that the red light is about to turn green. It’s prepping you for movement—but you’re still legally required to remain stopped. The actual green light is your cue to start driving again.
Why Is This Signal Important?
You might wonder, why not just switch straight from red to green? Why introduce this brief moment of red and amber together?
This combined signal is there to help you prepare. It gives drivers, especially those who are stopped at the light, a heads-up that the light will soon turn green. So you can check your mirrors, finish up that deep breath, put the car in gear if you need to, and be ready to go—not lurch into motion, but smoothly ease into driving once green appears.
It’s kind of like a runner getting into their start position when they hear “on your marks” but waiting to actually move until the starter pistol fires. The red and amber lights are your “get set,” while green is your “go.”
So, What Should You Actually Do?
Here’s the simple answer to our focus question: What should you do when you’re approaching traffic lights that have red and amber showing together?
Stop. Yes, you must still stop if you’re approaching and the light has not yet turned green.
Let’s break this down in a list:
- If you’re already at the stop line: Stay right where you are. This is not your sign to move yet.
- If you’re approaching the lights and see red and amber together: You must prepare to stop—do not try to dash through the junction.
- Wait for the green light before moving: Only when the light turns green should you begin to drive forward.
This rule is super important for keeping both drivers and pedestrians safe.
The Risks of Moving Too Soon
It’s understandable—you’re eager to get going, the light is about to change, and you think, “I’ll just creep forward a little.” But this can be risky.
Jumping the gun when you see the red and amber together might actually result in a traffic violation. Worse, it could lead to a collision. There could still be cars finishing their turn, or pedestrians crossing the road. That moment of hesitation can make all the difference.
So if you’re wondering again, what should you do when you’re approaching traffic lights that have red and amber showing together?—remember that staying patient protects both you and others on the road.
Real-Life Example: A Common Mistake
I once had a friend—let’s call him Dave—who had just passed his driving test. One day, he was rolling up to an intersection when he saw red and amber together. Thinking it was like an amber light alone, he began to pull forward. Luckily, nothing happened, but he got honked at and confused a pedestrian who was still crossing.
Later, when he looked it up in the highway code, he realized he was wrong. That combo meant he should’ve stopped. It’s a small mistake, but one that could have ended badly.
Let Dave’s experience be a friendly reminder—don’t rely on assumptions!
What If You’re Driving in a Different Country?
Here’s where things can get a bit tricky. Not all countries use the same traffic light pattern. In some places, like the U.S., traffic lights typically go straight from red to green without showing red and amber together.
If you’re driving abroad or learning to drive in a new place, take the time to understand the local road signals. Road rules can differ, and assuming they’re the same everywhere could lead you into risky situations.
Still, if you’re in the UK or another country that uses this system, the rule stays the same. Red and amber together means prepare to go—but stop until green appears.
Tips to Handle This Signal Confidently
Want to make sure you get it right every time you’re at this kind of light? Here are a few simple tips:
- Stay alert: Keep your eyes on the signal and be aware of road markings and nearby pedestrians.
- Don’t anticipate the green light: Wait until it actually turns green—don’t rely on guessing.
- Keep your car in control: In manual cars, some drivers use this moment to shift back into gear—just be sure you’re completely stopped beforehand.
- Practice patience: It’s only a couple seconds. Slow and safe is better than fast and sorry.
Remember, traffic signals are designed to protect everyone—not to hurry us along. A couple of extra seconds of waiting can make a huge difference.
Why New Drivers Need to Know This
If you’re learning to drive, or recently got your license, pay extra attention to this rare but important signal. During your driving test, the examiner might specifically check how you react to it.
In fact, driving instructors often use the red and amber combo as a teaching moment. Proper understanding and timing help show that you’re calm under pressure and aware of traffic rules.
So if a test asks, What should you do when you’re approaching traffic lights that have red and amber showing together?—you’ll know you should stop and wait. Simple as that.
How This Affects Cycling and Motorbike Riders
It’s not just car drivers who need to understand this signal—cyclists and motorbike riders need to follow the same rule. It’s easy to think that squeezing past waiting vehicles is okay when you’re on two wheels, especially during that red and amber moment.
But actually, pulling out during that stage is still moving against a red light. It’s not just illegal—it’s dangerous. You never know if a crosswalk is still in use or if another vehicle is finishing its turn.
Riders should wait for the green light just like everyone else.
The Takeaway: Know It, Respect It, Follow It
To wrap it all up, if you’ve made it this far, you probably won’t forget the answer the next time you’re waiting at an intersection. What should you do when you’re approaching traffic lights that have red and amber showing together? You stop. You wait. And when green shows up—you go.
These split-second decisions shape how safe and confident we are on the road. And by respecting even the less common signals, we all contribute to smoother, safer traffic flow.
So next time that red and amber combo pops up, smile a little. You’ve got it handled.
Drive safe out there!