The literature indicates that flashing-green or flashing-amber periods atthe end of the green phase do not necessarily increase safety at signalized intersections. Although, those periods were introduced to provide additional information in order to enable drivers to make safe stopping or crossing decisions. The objective of the present research is to evaluate, in light of the engineering literature, Israeli drivers perception of the flashing green light and to explore ethnic differences in knowledge of the legal meaning of flashing green, safety attitudes toward flashing green, andbehavior in its presence. A survey was conducted among 670 Israeli drivers in order to investigate three hypotheses regarding these issues. The results show that, in agreement with the literature, Israeli drivers exhibit a great variance in their reaction to the flashing green. As was hypothesized, it seems that most drivers favor the flashing green light in spite the fact that they reduce safety, and although significant differences apparently exist among ethnic groups in attitudes and behaviors regarding this phase. The meanings and implications of these findings are discussed.
Abstract