How do stoplight sensors work?

Question

On my way to work at 5 am, there is an intersection with a stoplight that must run on sensors. Usually, as there is not traffic at 5 am, the light will turn green as soon as I approach the intersection, but occasionally they do not. I try to reverse and pull up again, but that doesn't seem the help. I will end up sitting at the red light for a couple of minutes before eventually running it to get to work on time. Is there a way to make the sensor work if it doesn't seem to notice me? Where are the sensors located and what do they look like? There are tall poles with what I used to assume were video cameras to catch those who run red lights, but since I have not been ticketed yet, are those the sensors?

So its a silly question, but I have enough tickets and would prefer not getting one for running a red light when I need to be at work and the light just will not change!

Answer 1

Justin is correct

but I may add these electrical lines buried in the road emit a magnetic field and when the metal of a car passes above it, it slightly changes that magnetic field and sensors sense that change and change the lights

Answer 2

its not sensored,it works by an automatic timer.

Answer 3

It appears the signal has video detection system that senses the presence of vehicles.  The red light enforcement camera system has flash that is triggered by violators.

The signal timing probably favors the main street, so if you're coming from the cross street, you'd wait a little longer than usual.  Don't run the red light.  If you can't wait, make a right turn on red then make a U-turn somewhere.

Answer 4

I know what you mean they are a pain in the rear ,They got them all over Amarillo ,and this ain't even a real city they only have 1 mall.

Answer 5

there is a wire buried in the ground at the stop line the big white line and it senses  a auto when you stop on it or some times it senses your headlights so if it doesnt change try to flash your high beams it will change faster hope this helps