Signals almost always create more overall delay to drivers. In fact, minor side street traffic may experience excessive delay, particularly during off peak hours. Because of this, drivers may actually avoid the signalized intersection and switch to alternate routes or to residential streets not meant to handle through traffic. This leads to problems elsewhere in the area. People also seldom consider the cost of signals, both in public funds and out of their own pockets.
Drivers also have increased costs for fuel, time delay, and accidents, to name the obvious.
This adds to the reasons for making sure signals are installed only where clearly justified. Contact the appropriate public agency, the Washington State Department of Transportation regarding state highways, or your city or county public works department regarding city or county roads. Ask the traffic engineers to review available data on the intersection, and to consider initiating a more detailed study to see if a serious problem indeed exists. Talk to them about the possibility of trying lesser forms of traffic control, such as improved signing and pavement markings or minor intersection improvements, to see if that alleviates the problem. Keeping an open mind about the problem, and working together on the safest, most appropriate solution is the best approach to keeping traffic flowing safely and smoothly in our communities.