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Here's what to do when the traffic signal is out

When a signal is out, you're supposed to treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
Out of service traffic light (Photo: Thinkstock)

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - When Mylar balloons knocked out power in an area of Scottsdale last week, we got a look at how Arizona drivers deal with a broken stoplight. And it was almost as nail-biting as watching a high-speed chase.

When a signal is out, you’re supposed to treat the intersection as a four-way stop.

To clear things up, here’s what Arizona law says.

When two vehicles approach the intersection at about the same time, the driver on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.

Notice the part about approaching the intersection at the same time. That means vehicles four cars back shouldn’t follow the front car into the intersection – even if you are in a hurry.

According to the law, each car must stop at the limit line if marked, or if none, then before entering the intersection, just as you would at a stop sign.

Now that you know how to survive the next power outage on the road, go forth and drive (safely).

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