8.1.83. The traffic light signal differs from the traffic controller's signal. Will you follow the traffic light signal?
UAСигнал світлофора відрізняється від сигналу регулювальника. Ви будете користуватись сигналом світлофора:
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This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine tests knowledge of the priorities for controlling traffic at regulated intersections, which directly affects road safety. In real situations, a traffic light may operate simultaneously with a traffic controller (for example, during traffic jams, accidents, or changes in traffic organization), and the driver must clearly understand which signal takes precedence in order to avoid conflicts and accidents.
The question belongs to the section of the Traffic Rules concerning traffic regulation and signals, specifically to point 8.3. This point establishes that the signals of a traffic controller, who is regulating traffic, take precedence over traffic light signals and priority signs, and are mandatory for all road users. Therefore, even if the traffic light shows a permissive or prohibitive signal, the order of passage is determined by the controller if their instructions differ.
The option suggesting to follow the traffic light contains a typical mistake for the theoretical exam: it is not allowed to simultaneously follow two different means of regulation when they conflict. The correct answer is to follow the signals of the traffic controller, as they have higher priority according to the Traffic Rules of Ukraine; this knowledge helps you act correctly when the controller stops your direction on a "green" or, conversely, allows movement on a "red" traffic light.
Clause 8.3
The signals of a traffic controller who is directing traffic take precedence over traffic light signals and the requirements of priority road signs, and are mandatory for all road users.
Explanation of application: if both a traffic light and a traffic controller are operating at an intersection at the same time, but their signals contradict each other, the driver is required to follow the signals of the traffic controller, not the traffic light.
Therefore, the correct answer is "No," given that according to the Traffic Rules, the signals of the traffic controller take precedence over traffic light signals and are mandatory for compliance.
When both a traffic light is operating and a traffic controller is present at an intersection, such an intersection is considered regulated. In this situation, it is important to understand that you cannot simultaneously follow two different means of regulation if their signals contradict each other.
Clause 8.3 of the Traffic Rules of Ukraine establishes the priority of the traffic controller's signals: if the controller is directing traffic, their instructions are mandatory for all road users and take precedence over traffic light signals and the requirements of priority signs. That is, the traffic light does not determine the order of passage at this moment, even if it is operating.
For example, if the traffic light shows green for your direction, but the controller gives a signal prohibiting movement (gesturing to stop your direction), you must stop and comply with the controller's instruction. Conversely, if the traffic light shows red but the controller allows movement in your direction, you may proceed, because it is the controller who determines the order of movement at the intersection.
Therefore, the correct answer is "No," because in case of conflicting signals at a regulated intersection, you must follow the signals of the traffic controller, not the traffic light.