MDOT To Implement Flashing Yellow Arrow Signals In Desoto County

The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) will implement a new traffic signal to provide a safer and more efficient left-turn for motorists in Desoto County. The new Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) left-turn signals will begin replacing the circular green signal for permitted left turns at selected intersections. 

The new FYA signal provides a more direct message than the circular green one. A national study demonstrated drivers had fewer crashes when using the FYA left turn signal than with the traditional green left turn signal because some drivers perceive any green signal to mean GO. One of the key benefits of the FYA signal will be lowering wait times at traffic signals at intersections. 

Motorists can expect to see the FYA signal in Southaven on Highway 51 at its intersection with Star Landing Road and in Olive Branch on Highway 302 at its intersection with Polk Lane. MDOT expects these signals to be operational in March. Similar to the circular green signal, the FYA signal means left-turns are allowed, but first the driver must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before proceeding with caution. 

MDOT would like to remind motorists that all oncoming traffic has the right of way. The FYA signal simply allows motorists to turn left when the oncoming traffic is clear. 

You can view an informational brochure of the new FYA signal here http://ow.ly/xISK8. You can view a video demonstration of the new FYA signal here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEN0pnO0F1k.