Drivers have been cautioned about unlawfully passing through red lights at temporary roadworks, with a potential penalty of £100 and three points on their licence. According to motoring experts Select Car Leasing , some motorists wrongly think that red lights put up by construction companies during street works are just 'suggestions' not subject to the same laws as permanent traffic signals. Contrary to popular belief, you cannot 'proceed with caution' at a red light in a temporary construction zone just because the way ahead appears to be clear.
There are those who risk it primarily during late-night hours when traffic is reduced, or when the system seems faulty or slow responding. However, Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, highlighted that both the Road Traffic Act and the Traffic Signs Regulations treat portable temporary lights at road developments, as well as temporary road traffic control systems, on par with lasting lights and signs under law. As such, disregarding any red light, whether temporary or permanent, may result in a fine of £100 and three points on your licence.
Mr. Conway warned: "I think we've all probably been in a situation where we've approached a temporary roadworks late at night and seen a traffic light seemingly 'stuck' on red. If you can see the end of the roadworks ahead, and there's no other traffic on the road, you might even be tempted to sneak through before the lights change to green.
" "There's also a widely held belief.