Is it legal to change red lights by using high beams in civilian vehicle?

Question

For two years now I have learned that I am able to change or modulate the red stop light if I am approaching one by clicking my highbeams on and off in the same pattern that EMS vehicles use when they need to perform safety tasks and their emergency lights are active. I am never late to work in my 20 minute commute because I can either modulate every red light or drive over a switch in the pavement as I apprach the line. Is this legal ? I will be looking for credible web sites for best answers.

Also, if anyone has any additional information to how this works, that would be great. I really want to confirm this myth and learn all about.

Thanks.

Answer 1

No, at least not in California.  I know a friend who received a ticket for flashing his high beams when approaching a red light.

Answer 2

if you really can do this then i would be quiet about it and just do it. not only is it against the law but if everybody can do it can you imagine the gridlock at every intersection?

Answer 3

The speed of the flashing isn't the key,  the lights in question are photo-sensitive.    Yes,  the light is doing it.

It is legal to use your headlamps if you are not going to adversely effect any other drivers.    If someone is in front of you,  or crossing the intersection,  then you may not use high-beams.   Of course,  this may not be the general rule in all jurisdictions.

Answer 4

well I drove a Rig RGW 162,000 and timing lights can make a huge difference in fuel economy so calculating your velocity to arrive at a green becomes a  valuable skill,but flashing your lights is just rude and does nothing there are however trip pads by a lot of lights that sense vehicle weight to signal for a green in the case of variable density,also many streets have timed greens which lead traffic at the speed limit you'll not hit a red lest you speed

Answer 5

I seriously doubt that this can be done.

Answer 6

Thanks for the tip.  I am gonna try it myself ASAP

Answer 7

That has got to be one of the biggest loads of c**p I`ve heard in a while. I suggest leaving earlier.

Answer 8

Flashing your lights will do two things:

Wear out the switch and

get you a ticket.

Answer 9

Most of the interruptible systems use infrared or radio transmitters to change the light, and the ones that do use strobes typically operate at a frequency of 14 Hz, or 14 cycles per second. This is far faster than you can cycle your high beams, so it is more likely that your actions are simply allowing the camera to see your car sooner than it would otherwise, and cycle the light accordingly. Devices are sold which incorporate a 14Hz strobe light and an infrared filter, but these are illegal everywhere in the U.S.

Bear in mind that it is illegal virtually everywhere for civilian vehicles to alter traffic signals, and you could be cited for impersonating an emergency vehicle and/or improper use of high beams. A safer solution is to drive with your lights on at all times, which will allow the cameras to see your vehicle better in traffic situations.