MOUNTLAKE TERRACE — Some people are creatures of habit. When it comes to driving though, these folks apparently need to be more flexible.
According to city officials, there have been two car accidents at the intersection of 56th Avenue West and 220th Street SW in Mountlake Terrace since the reconstruction of the main city street was complete in mid December. Not to mention the other close calls.
The accidents were caused by people not yielding to oncoming traffic when turning left on a solid green ball signal, said Kirk Roberts, Mountlake Terrace traffic engineer.
The reason for the accidents could be simply driver error and coincidence or it could be that regular drivers of the area anticipate the signal to give them a green arrow alone to turn left— the way it used to be.
With the new signal, there still is a green arrow but only temporarily, then it changes to a solid green ball, Roberts said. This type of signal is now common all over South Snohomish County.
When turning left on a solid green ball, the driver turning is required to yield to oncoming traffic. This type of left hand turn is more efficient and saves time, among other positive attributes, Roberts said.
A reminder is a good thing, Roberts said, and is why the city still, almost two months later, has its “caution – traffic revision” signs and fluorescent orange flags up to draw attention to the change and raise awareness, he said.
“I think everyone’s on board with the changes now and starting to understand it,” Roberts said.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
