Kuwait expands electronic flashing traffic lights to reduce rear-end crashes
- If a motorist passes the flashing warning before the signal turns red, the violation is recorded as running a red light. The violation can be detected through traffic-monitoring cameras or by the Traffic Operations Department, according to the official.
The General Traffic Department has expanded the use of an electronic flashing warning system at traffic signals, with officials saying the measure has helped reduce rear-end collisions at locations where it was initially tested.
Major Mohammad Al-Ghanem, an officer with the Traffic Enforcement Department said the system was introduced to improve road safety and protect drivers, passengers, pedestrians and property.
Traffic authorities had observed an increase in accidents linked to sudden stopping at traffic lights, according to Al-Ghanem. The electronic flashing system was therefore introduced as a warning mechanism designed to give road users clearer indications about an approaching signal change.
Authorities first tested the system at a number of major intersections and monitored the results. According to Al-Ghanem, the initial trials produced rapid results, including a significant decline in rear-end collisions at the locations where the system was tested.
A noticeable reduction in violations involving mobile-phone use while drivers were stopped at traffic lights was also observed. The system uses five consecutive flashes from the traffic signal. The flashes are intended to alert drivers to the need to stop when the signal is red or proceed when it is green.
The warning is designed to give motorists additional awareness of the signal status and help avoid sudden decisions at intersections. Al-Ghanem said drivers must comply with the signal.
If a motorist passes the flashing warning before the signal turns red, the violation is recorded as running a red light. The violation can be detected through traffic-monitoring cameras or by the Traffic Operations Department, according to the official.
System being expanded across Kuwait
Following the initial trials, the Traffic Department expanded the electronic flashing system to most intersections across Kuwait, with work continuing to introduce it at the remaining intersections. The intersections are monitored around the clock by the Traffic Operations and Traffic Enforcement departments, according to Al-Ghanem.
Authorities say the primary purpose of the project is to protect lives and property. Sudden stopping at traffic signals can create risks not only for motorists but also for pedestrians, particularly people attempting to cross roads quickly.
Al-Ghanem urged all road users to follow traffic rules and instructions, stressing that the measures are intended to improve safety and provide greater security for everyone using Kuwait’s roads.
