Who to Call When a Traffic Light is Out: 1 Minute to Get You The Right Help Fast

When a traffic light is out, it’s not just a simple inconvenience—it can be a real safety hazard for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. The first step in handling this situation is to know who is responsible for traffic signals in your area. Usually, this falls to your city or municipality’s Public Works or Transportation Department. In some cases, county or state-level agencies—like the Department of Transportation (DOT)—manage specific roads or intersections, especially on highways. To report a non-functioning traffic light, you should call the non-emergency number for your local police department or city service center. If the outage causes dangerous conditions or has led to an accident, contact emergency services (911) immediately so they can direct traffic and prevent collisions. As a designer, I understand how the reliability of wayfinding and visual cues—like traffic signals—impacts how people move through spaces. This thinking translates directly into interior design, where well-planned and clearly signaled transitions between zones improve flow and safety in your home or workspace. For example, using the Room Planner tool can help you visualize and optimize circulation areas, ensuring every space functions safely and smoothly, just like a well-operated intersection.

Tips 1:

Before making a call, jot down the exact location of the broken light, note any cross streets, and observe whether the light is completely out or blinking. Providing accurate information helps authorities resolve the issue quickly.

FAQ

Q: Who do I call if a traffic light is out in my city?

A: Contact your city’s Public Works or Transportation Department, or use the city’s service request phone number or website.

Q: Is it an emergency if a traffic light is out?

A: If the outage creates a dangerous situation, call 911. Otherwise, report it using non-emergency numbers.

Q: What do I do at an intersection if the traffic light is out?

A: Treat it as a four-way stop: every vehicle must come to a complete stop and proceed when safe.

Q: Can I report a traffic light outage online?

A: Many cities have online service portals or apps where you can report issues like signal outages.

Q: Who is responsible for traffic lights on highways or major roads?

A: State or county Departments of Transportation usually manage signals on highways and major routes.