The N.C. Department of Transportation is changing the flash mode for traffic signals when they malfunction.
They will all now flash red making it an all-way stop.
The department began modifying its traffic signals back in May so they will revert to a flashing red in every direction whenever there is a problem, such as an equipment failure.
“We are making this change to improve the safety of our intersections and provide a consistent display when the signal is not operating normally,” said Nick Zinser with NCDOT .
Previously, the department used a yellow-red flashing mode when a signal malfunctioned.
The main corridor with the heavier traffic got a flashing yellow for drivers to cautiously proceed, while the side-street drivers received a flashing red.
The department will phase in this change over the next year as part of preventative maintenance.