2.2 Traffic Signals, Lights, and Pavement Markings

Traffic signals and pavement markings work in tandem with signs to regulate the flow of traffic, assign right-of-way, and define the boundaries of the roadway. For a motorcyclist, understanding the precise meaning of every painted line and illuminated signal is crucial. The road surface and the lights above it provide constant feedback about where you should be, what you are allowed to do, and who has the right-of-way. This section explores standard traffic signals, specialized lights, and the vocabulary of pavement markings.

Traffic Light Signals

Traffic lights are the primary method for controlling complex intersections. They follow a universal color scheme but can feature various combinations of solid lights, flashing lights, and arrows.

Standard Solid Signals

• Solid Red: You must bring your motorcycle to a complete stop behind the stop line or crosswalk. You may turn right on a solid red light after coming to a complete stop and yielding to all pedestrians and cross traffic, unless a "No Right Turn on Red" sign is posted.
• Solid Amber (Yellow): This indicates that the light is about to turn red. You must stop if you can do so safely. If you are already too close to the intersection to stop safely, you should proceed with caution. As a motorcyclist, you must be particularly aware of the vehicle behind you; braking too harshly for a yellow light could result in being rear-ended.
• Solid Green: You may proceed through the intersection if the way is clear. Always scan left, center, and right before entering on a fresh green light to ensure cross traffic has stopped.

Flashing Signals

• Flashing Red: Treat a flashing red light exactly like a stop sign. Come to a complete stop, yield the right-of-way, and proceed only when it is safe.
• Flashing Amber (Yellow): A flashing amber light means you must slow down and proceed with caution. Be highly alert for crossing traffic or pedestrians, but you are not legally required to come to a complete stop unless necessary to avoid a collision.

Arrows and Advance Signals

• Red, Amber, and Green Arrows: Arrows dictate movement for a specific lane. A solid green arrow means you have the right-of-way to turn in the direction of the arrow. A solid red arrow means you must not turn in that direction.
• Advance Green: In Ontario, an advance green is often indicated by a flashing green light or a green arrow shown with a solid green light. This means opposing traffic is facing a red light, and you have the right-of-way to turn left or go straight.
• Transit Signals: Some intersections feature vertical or horizontal white bars on a black background. These are transit priority signals for buses and streetcars. You must obey standard traffic lights, not the transit signals.

Pedestrian Signals and Crossovers

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users, and motorcyclists must always be prepared to yield to them.

• Pedestrian Signals: These feature a white walking figure (walk) and an orange hand (don't walk). A flashing orange hand indicates pedestrians should not start crossing, but those already in the crosswalk may finish.
• Pedestrian Crossovers: These are designated crossing areas, often marked with overhead illuminated 'X' signs, flashing yellow beacons, and large "shark's teeth" yield markings on the road. By law, you must stop and yield the entire roadway to pedestrians crossing at a crossover. You may not proceed until the pedestrian has completely cleared your side of the road and the adjacent lane.

Pavement Markings

Pavement markings provide continuous guidance and regulatory information. The color and pattern of the lines are critical.

Yellow Lines

Yellow lines separate traffic traveling in opposite directions.

• Solid Yellow Line: Indicates that passing is unsafe and generally prohibited. If the solid yellow line is on your side of the road, you should not pass.
• Broken Yellow Line: Indicates that passing is permitted if the way is clear. As a rider, ensure you have ample acceleration space and visibility before committing to a pass.
• Double Solid Yellow Lines: Indicate that passing is strictly prohibited in both directions.
• Yellow Edge Lines: Mark the left edge of a divided highway or one-way street.

White Lines

White lines separate traffic traveling in the same direction and mark the right edge of the roadway.

• Solid White Line: Indicates that lane changes are discouraged or prohibited. Solid white lines are often found near intersections to prevent last-minute lane swaps.
• Broken White Line: Indicates that you may change lanes when it is safe to do so.
• White Edge Lines: Mark the right edge of the roadway, helping you stay on the pavement in poor visibility.

Special Markings

• Stop Lines: A thick, solid white line drawn across your lane before an intersection. You must stop completely before your front tire crosses this line.
• Crosswalk Markings: Two parallel white lines or a series of thick white blocks across the road. Always keep your motorcycle out of the crosswalk when stopped.
• Bicycle Lanes: Marked with solid white lines and a bicycle symbol. Motorcyclists must not ride in or park in designated bicycle lanes.
• Diamond Symbols (HOV): White diamond symbols painted on the road indicate a High Occupancy Vehicle lane. As noted earlier, motorcycles are generally allowed to use these lanes.
• Railway Crossing Markings: Large white 'X' markings and 'RXR' letters painted on the pavement warn of an approaching railway crossing.

Mastering the interpretation of traffic signals and pavement markings allows you to anticipate the flow of traffic, maintain a safe and legal lane position, and avoid dangerous conflicts at intersections.