What is the function of traffic lights?

Traffic lights serve a critical function of managing the flow of traffic at intersections and dedicated pedestrian crossing points, which significantly enhances safety for both drivers and pedestrians. By providing clear signals—red for stop, green for go, and yellow for caution—traffic lights help organize traffic movement, reduce the likelihood of collisions, and control the timing of vehicle and foot traffic. This systematic approach minimizes confusion and the possibility of traffic accidents, thereby ensuring safer travel conditions for all road users.

While speed limits, directions for travelers, and road maintenance indicators are important features of road management, they do not encapsulate the primary role of traffic lights. Speed limits are enforced through signage and law enforcement rather than traffic lights, direction signs provide guidance independently of traffic signals, and maintenance areas are marked to inform drivers of potential disruptions, which is separate from the traffic management purpose of lights.