8.1.78. A green flashing traffic signal means that:
UAЗелений миготливий сигнал світлофора означає, що:
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This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine concerns the safety of passing intersections and the correct interpretation of traffic light signals. In real traffic, it is precisely during phase changes (when the “green” is ending) that mistakes most often occur: some drivers try to “make it” abruptly, while others start braking at the wrong time. Understanding the meaning of the flashing green helps avoid driving through a prohibitive signal and reduces the risk of accidents.
The question tests the section of the traffic rules regarding traffic regulation by traffic lights, specifically clause 8.7.3 (c) of the Traffic Rules of Ukraine. According to this clause, the flashing green signal does not immediately stop movement but allows it, while also warning that a prohibitive signal will soon be activated. At many intersections, this is further clarified by a digital countdown display, which helps the driver make a decision without rushing.
The analysis of answer options in the theoretical exam comes down to the difference between “permission” and “warning.” The statement that movement is prohibited is incorrect, because the prohibition comes with the yellow/red signal, while the flashing green only signals the end of the phase. Similarly, the option about prohibiting movement except for emergency braking is also incorrect: this confuses the flashing green with situations where the driver assesses the possibility of stopping before the stop line. The correct logic is as follows: movement is still permitted, but you must prepare in advance or safely complete crossing the intersection, making sure not to be on it after the prohibitive signal is activated.
Clause 8.7.3 (c) of the Traffic Rules of Ukraine
«Traffic light signals have the following meanings: (c) a flashing green allows movement, but informs that a signal prohibiting movement will be activated soon. Digital displays may be used to inform drivers of the time (in seconds) remaining until the end of the green signal.»
That is, the correct answer is "Movement is allowed, but a signal prohibiting movement will be activated soon," considering that according to the definition in the Traffic Rules, a flashing green signal allows movement and at the same time warns of the imminent activation of a prohibiting signal.
When you approach an intersection and see a green traffic light, it means that movement is allowed. But if the green light starts flashing, the situation changes: such a signal does not prohibit movement right now, but it warns that the “green” phase is ending.
According to clause 8.7.3 (c) of the Traffic Rules of Ukraine, a flashing green signal allows movement, but at the same time informs the driver that a signal prohibiting movement will soon be activated. That is, it is a kind of advance warning so that the driver has time to properly assess the distance to the stop line or the edge of the intersected carriageway and make a decision without sudden braking or risking to “rush through.”
For example, if you are already close to the intersection and can safely pass through it without violating the Traffic Rules, movement on the flashing green is formally allowed. However, if you are still approaching and realize that the yellow (and then red) will light up in a moment, the correct tactic is to prepare in advance to stop at the place provided by the Rules, so as not to end up in the intersection when movement is already prohibited. On some traffic lights, to better understand the time remaining until the end of the “green,” additional digital countdown displays may be used.
Thus, the correct answer is “Movement is allowed, but a signal prohibiting movement will soon be activated,” since the flashing green, according to clause 8.7.3 (c) of the Traffic Rules, still allows movement but warns of the imminent activation of a prohibiting signal.