The flashing yellow arrow traffic signal replaces the green circle indicator and offers a safer, more efficient way for a motorist to make a left turn.

The left arrow provides a more direct message to the driver and reduces confusion since the left-turn display is no longer the same symbol as the adjacent through lanes. It also prevents a driver turning left on a green circle from inadvertently implying that the left turn has the right-of-way over the opposing traffic.

What do the arrows mean?

What makes the flashing yellow arrow a better signal?

A national study conducted for the Federal Highway Administration demonstrated that this new signal indication:

• Helps to prevent crashes. The study concluded that drivers found the new flashing yellow arrows easier to understand than the traditional yield-on-green indications.
• Increases the amount of traffic that moves through an intersection. There are more opportunities to make a left turn with the flashing yellow arrow than the fully protected left turn indication with only a green arrow.
• Provides more flexibility. The new signal provides more options for traffic engineers to handle variable traffic volumes and patterns.

What should a motorist do when approaching a traffic signal with a flashing yellow arrow?

• Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
• When it is safe, proceed with caution through the intersection.
• After it stops flashing and becomes a solid yellow arrow, prepare to stop or complete the left turn if you are within the intersection and there is no conflicting traffic.

Where can these new traffic signals be found?

The flashing yellow arrow signals can be found at intersections in Overland Park, Lenexa, and many other locations throughout the Kansas City metro area.

Flashing arrow traffic signals are located in Prairie Village at the following intersections:

• Somerset and Nall
• 83rd Street and Somerset