Final answer:
A flashing yellow arrow in the left turn lane means drivers can slow down and turn left if the intersection is clear, but they must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Speed limits should be followed, and caution must be taken near high pedestrian areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
A flashing yellow arrow in the left turn lane allows drivers to slow down and turn left if the intersection is clear. The flashing yellow arrow indicates that drivers are permitted to turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. This contrasts with a solid green arrow, which would provide the protected phase for a left turn without the need to yield. Drivers are reminded to always adhere to the posted speed limit and watch for pedestrians, especially in areas with high foot traffic, such as near a campus.
Traffic signals play a crucial role in the management of traffic flow and the safety of pedestrians, which is particularly important in areas with heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic. In such areas, without the control of a traffic signal, vehicles may not stop, increasing the risk of accidents, and pedestrians may struggle to find safe times to cross the intersection.