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Green Lights Reward Slower Drivers
30 Aug
Summary
- Traffic signals now grant early green lights to slower drivers.
- This system has dramatically reduced crashes and injuries.
- Speeding drivers are penalized with more frequent red lights.
Cities are implementing a novel traffic safety concept known as "rest in red," which defaults traffic signals to red until a vehicle approaches. This system has seen success in Albuquerque and Portland, Oregon, where speed sensors have been added. These sensors grant an earlier green light to drivers traveling at or below the posted speed limit, effectively penalizing speeders with more red lights.
Residents have reported a noticeable decrease in speeding and related accidents since the implementation of "rest in red." In Portland, this "virtual speed bump" approach has lowered average speeds on busy roads. While researchers are still assessing the long-term impacts, early results suggest a promising reduction in speeding and crashes, though further study is needed to ensure no negative consequences arise.
