Can you drive through a yellow light, or should you stop in Maryland? Here’s what the law says

When approaching an intersection as the traffic light turns yellow, drivers must decide whether to stop or proceed. While stopping is often safer, many choose to continue to avoid delays. Here’s what Maryland law says about driving through a yellow light.

Car is stopped on a traffic signalPhoto byAshwini Chaudhary(Monty)onUnsplash

What the Law Says

• Purpose of Yellow Light:
• • A steady yellow signal warns drivers that the green light is ending and a red light is imminent.
  • For pedestrians, it indicates insufficient time to start crossing the roadway before the red signal appears.

Driver Responsibilities

• Response to Yellow Light:
• • Drivers must prepare to stop when facing a yellow light unless stopping safely is not possible.
  • Entering the intersection on yellow is permitted only if the vehicle cannot stop safely.
• Yellow Light Duration:
• • The duration of yellow lights is regulated by the State Highway Administration, ensuring consistency with Federal Highway Administration standards.

Pedestrian Guidelines

• Pedestrian Actions:
• • Pedestrians facing a steady yellow signal should not begin to cross the roadway.
  • Those already crossing should complete their crossing quickly and safely.

Monitoring and Penalties

• Traffic Signal Monitoring:
• • Traffic control signal monitoring systems ensure compliance with yellow light laws.
  • Violations caught on camera can result in civil penalties, but not exceeding $100.
• Citations:
• • Citations are issued to the vehicle's registered owner, detailing the violation, time, and location.
  • Owners may choose to pay the penalty or contest the citation in District Court.

Adhering to yellow light laws in Maryland is crucial for safety and compliance. Understanding when to stop and the penalties for violations can help drivers and pedestrians navigate intersections more effectively.