Question

Difficulty: HardPedestrian and Bicycle Signals and Markings

A driver is approaching a mid-block crosswalk controlled by a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK signal). The signal sequence has just changed from steady double red lights to alternating flashing double red lights. A pedestrian has already cleared the driver's lane and is walking on the far side of the roadway. Which action must the driver legally take?

  1. Come to a complete stop, yield to any remaining pedestrians in the crosswalk, and proceed once the crosswalk is clear even while the lights continue flashing.Answer
  2. B
    Remain completely stopped at the stop line until the flashing red lights turn completely dark.
  3. C
    Slow down and proceed through the crosswalk without stopping since the pedestrian has already cleared the driver's lane.
  4. D
    Treat the signal as a standard flashing yellow warning light by slowing down and yielding only if a pedestrian steps back into the lane.

Answer

The driver must bring the vehicle to a full stop, check that the crosswalk is completely clear of pedestrians, and then proceed with caution even while the beacon lights continue to flash red alternatingly.
During the alternating flashing red phase of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon, drivers are required to bring their vehicle to a complete stop. After stopping, if no pedestrians are in or approaching the crosswalk on the driver's side of the roadway, the driver may legally proceed through the crosswalk even if the red lights are still flashing.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the signal type and current phase
The device is a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK) displaying double alternating flashing red lights.
Different phases of a hybrid beacon carry specific legal requirements distinct from standard circular traffic lights.
2
Determine the legal stopping requirement for alternating flashing red
The vehicle must come to a complete stop before entering the marked crosswalk.
An alternating flashing red signal at a hybrid beacon operates legally like a stop sign.
3
Evaluate right-of-way conditions
Yield to any pedestrians in any portion of the crosswalk. Once the entire crosswalk is clear, proceed.
Drivers do not need to remain stationary until the beacon goes dark, provided a complete stop was made and all pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk.

Key Concept

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK Signal) Alternating Flashing Red Phase Rules
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