Is it OK in SC to drive through yellow traffic lights? Here’s what the law says

When a traffic light turns yellow in South Carolina, it means drive like crazy to get through it right?

Um no. Even though in some states that’s an actual question on a driving test. Still, the answer is no.

South Carolina law is pretty clear. If you are outside the intersection, a yellow light means stop, the red light is coming soon.

If you’re in the intersection, you can proceed.

If you scoot on through the intersection and a patrolman sees it, you can be cited and fined. And you could actually cause an accident.

Joye Law Firm, which has offices across South Carolina, says on its website that traffic signals are supposed to keep people safe; but negligent drivers make intersections unsafe.

Red light running causes about 900 deaths a year and 143,000 injuries, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

“Yellow signals aren’t an invitation to speed through an intersection as fast as possible,” the personal injury law firm says. “If you encounter a flashing yellow light, it means you should reduce your speed and proceed with caution. While you may be able to move forward through the intersection, it’s always important to be ready to stop.”

Flashing yellow lights means drive through the intersection with caution.

“Reduce your speed and proceed with caution,” Joye Law Firm says. “While you may be able to move forward through the intersection, it’s always important to be ready to stop.”

Rock Hill lawyer Sabreena Barboza said violations can come with fines and court costs and four points on your driver’s license.

Also your insurance premiums could rise.

And that’s nothing compared to the consequences you could face if you cause an accident.

Joye law firm says the reasons for accidents occurring in intersections are:

• Running late
• Speeding and unable to slow down
• Distracted by cell phones, electronic devices, music, talking with passengers
• Impaired by drugs or alcohol
• Driving aggressively or recklessly due to road rage or frustration
• Fatigued