PARIS - The Texas Department of Transportation’s Paris District is hoping the installation of a left turn signal will help reduce confusion and traffic crashes.
There are currently two flashing yellow arrow (FYA) signals in the district’s nine county region, at the intersection of SH 56 and SH 121 in Fannin County, and the intersection of SH 11 and FM 2297 in Hopkins County.
The signals will be installed at locations already equipped with “permissive” left turn lanes and signals, or where vehicles do not have a protected left turn and must yield to oncoming traffic. These FYA signals will eventually replace the traditional circular green signal at some left turns commonly used throughout the state.
“Based on recent safety studies, the flashing arrow left-turn signal reduces traffic crashes for those vehicles turning left at busy intersections,” said Darius Samuels, transportation engineer for the Paris District Traffic Office. “Sometimes motorists are confused about when to turn with the standard green circular traffic signal. The new FYA signal is easier for drivers to understand.”
The state agency points to research that shows the new FYA signal is safer and more efficient. TxDOT recently changed its traffic control device standards to reflect national changes, including the use of the FYA signal system.
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TxDot has issued these safety tips concerning the new signals.
The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation across the state. Split into 25 districts, the Paris division serves the counties of Delta, Fannin, Franklin, Grayson, Hopkins, Hunt, Lamar, Rains and Red River.