Blackout in Spain: Which signal to heed if the traffic lights aren't working

The massive blackout that affected the entire Iberian Peninsula and southern France on Monday, April 28th, left thousands of drivers facing an unusual situation on Spanish roads : traffic lights that were off, flashing, or completely black. A scene more like something out of a movie, but as real as the shutdown of trains and other transportation or the lack of connectivity on our telecommunications networks.

Given this scenario, it's vital to remain calm and, above all, civil . Fortunately, this has been the case across the country during the most critical moments of the traffic blackout. Not surprisingly, some people are wondering what the law says when this traffic light out situation occurs, and what signal they should heed.

What to do if the traffic lights are out?

The answer is clear: if the traffic lights are not working, you must obey the vertical signals and, failing that, apply the general priority rules. This means that, at an intersection where the traffic light is off but there is a 'yield' or 'stop' sign, that sign is still valid and must be respected. It doesn't matter if the traffic light, normally green, normally gave us right of way: the steady signal is in effect.

And if there's no visible sign, then common sense prevails... and the General Traffic Regulations: those coming from the right have priority. This is stated in the regulations: "At unmarked intersections, approaching vehicles must yield to those approaching from their right ." This, of course, except for exceptions such as main streets, roundabouts, or situations where priority is clearly required.

What happens if there are traffic officers?

Another important detail: the police officer always prevails . If a police officer is regulating traffic, his or her instructions take priority over any traffic lights or signs. During today's blackout, many municipalities deployed police officers at the most congested areas to prevent major traffic jams, so they are the ones who must be obeyed in these cases.

In short, and always keeping in mind that prudence is the key in these extreme situations of chaos and uncertainty :