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Ramp Metering Lights: Good or Bad?

If you drive in Palm Beach, you have probably noticed more and more traffic signals at the entrances to I-95. These traffic signals are actually called “ramp metering lights” and are growing in popularity throughout Southeast Florida and the country. It can be frustrating to encounter one of these and you may be wondering what they do.

Ramp metering lights help manage the flow of traffic on the highway. The signals in South Florida run during rush hour and can also be activated at other times, such as if there is an accident or construction, based on real-time traffic flows. Without the lights, large groups of tightly packed cars enter the already-crowded highway, causing the vehicles that are traveling on the highway to slow down or stop to allow the new cars to merge into the lane. It also leads to cars already on the highway attempting to change lanes to make room for the oncoming cars. This creates stop-and-go traffic, which worsens congestion and is a major source of highway accidents.

With the ramp metering lights, only one or two cars enter the highway at once, preventing large groups of cars from entering and trying to simultaneously merge into existing traffic. This reduces the amount of crashes and increases the traffic speed, allowing you to reach your destination sooner.

How Ramp Metering Lights Work

If the ramp metering is active, before you reach the light, you will see a flashing orange light alerting you that ramp metering is in process. When you see the red light at the ramp meter, pull up to the line on the road, as indicated on the sign, to activate the signal.  When the light turns green, proceed through the light onto the highway. There will be signage to indicate if one or two cars can pass through on each green light. If you are waiting for a little while, the ramp meter didn’t malfunction or forget about you – it means that there is heavy traffic and it needs to clear up before you can enter. While this is undoubtedly annoying, you can rest assured knowing that you will have a faster, smoother, and safer ride once you are on the highway.

Ramp metering lights help prevent accidents, but they still occur. Make sure you are driving defensively, following all posted speed limits, and avoiding distractions, such as texting. If you are involved in an accident, first seek medical care, then contact ECanter Lawyers for a free consultation to learn your rights to recovering compensation for your injuries.

ECanter Lawyers

When you are dealing with the chaos and pain of accidents and personal injuries, the last thing you need is technical, confusing legal language.  ECanter Lawyers breaks down the complexities and provides clear, informative answers so that you understand your legal options. 

For a quarter of a century, ECanter Lawyers has remained committed to honest, straightforward answers.  Named one of AVVO’s Clients’ Choice, ECanter Lawyers has helped clients receive multi-million-dollar verdicts, and millions of dollars in settlements.  ECanter Lawyers specializes in personal injury, motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, premises and product liability, and healthcare law.

With offices conveniently located throughout South Florida and 24/7 services, ECanter Lawyers personal injury law firm offers you the personalized attention that you need in order to maximize your compensation. 

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