As of October 1, 2012, non-functioning traffic lights must be given the exact same attention as functioning signals.
Before entering any crosswalk or intersection, drivers must halt at the marked crosswalk and yield to any vehicle or pedestrian already in the intersection until it is safe to enter and continue through it.
Existing laws are still in effect. If two vehicles come to an intersection without a traffic signal or with a non-functioning traffic signal, the vehicle on the left must yield the right of way to the vehicle on the right. When a signal is in flashing mode, it is functioning and must be obeyed in the following way: drivers approaching a flashing red light must stop and may proceed only when the intersection is clear. If approaching a flashing yellow light, drivers must slow down may proceed with caution without stopping. (If an officer is directing traffic his/her directions supersede the signal.)
Drivers must exercise care and caution at all signals, functioning or non-functioning. Violations of the new law carry a fine of $90 and two points if the offense does not contribute to an accident. If the violation contributes to a crash, the fine is $130 and three points.
