(Lawrenceville, Ga., March 7, 2014) – New flashing yellow arrow turn signals are coming to two intersections on state routes in the county. The signals apply exclusively to drivers making left turns and will be installed at intersections with historically heavy left turn volumes. Weather permitting, Gwinnett DOT crews will install the signals and modify intersection operations on State Route 13 (Buford Highway) at George Pierce Park and State Route 124 (Scenic Highway) at Pharrs Road by Friday, March 14. Installation of the signals is a joint project between Gwinnett County Department of Transportation and the Georgia Department of Transportation.

The new signals will consist of a vertical display of four left turn arrows that function as follows:

• When the solid red signal is illuminated, drivers may not turn left.
• When the solid yellow signal is illuminated, drivers must prepare to stop.
• When the flashing yellow signal is illuminated, drivers may turn left but yield to pedestrians and oncoming vehicles.
• When the solid green arrow is illuminated, drivers may turn left.

Federal studies have shown that flashing yellow arrow turn signals help prevent left turn crashes by as much as 35 percent, ease traffic congestion and reduce vehicle idling and air pollution. Flashing yellow arrow turn signals are now Georgia DOT’s preferred left turn signal for eligible locations.