A12 junction traffic lights changing 'too quickly'

Motorists have raised issues with the traffic lights on the A12 changing too quickly <i>(Image: Google maps)</i>
Motorists have raised issues with the traffic lights on the A12 changing too quickly (Image: Google maps)
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Concerns are mounting among motorists over the timing of traffic lights at a busy junction on the A12, with some drivers claiming the signals change too quickly to stop safely.

Drivers using the junction near Auster Way, the new development leading to Brightwell Lakes near Martlesham and Ipswich, say the short amber light is creating dangerous problems, particularly on a dual carriageway with a 50mph limit.

Several motorists report being forced into split-second decisions, choosing either to brake harshly or continue through red lights to avoid potential collisions.

One driver, who operates a lorry, said stopping safely within the three-second amber window is extremely difficult when travelling at 50mph without risking a dangerous emergency stop.

They argue that heavy vehicles require significantly longer stopping distances, especially in poor weather conditions such as rain, which further reduces braking efficiency.

Some drivers have cited guidance from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, which suggests amber lights should last roughly one second per 10mph of speed.

Motorists have raised issues with the traffic lights on the A12 changing too quickly (Image: Google maps)

By that measure, motorists believe a 50mph road should have an amber phase closer to five seconds rather than three.

People reporting the problem to Suffolk Highways using the reporting tool, claimed they have already seen near-misses and repeated instances of vehicles proceeding through red lights because they could not stop in time.

Another said: "What also makes this worse is the fact that you have no visibility of cars waiting to pull out onto the A12 so you can't even anticipate the lights changing until it's too late."

A spokesperson for Suffolk County Council said: "The lights which have been installed at the junction of the A12 and Auster Way are managed by Suffolk Highways and have a three-second amber light when stopping traffic. 

"The three-second amber light is a national standard and is in line with all our traffic signals in the county."

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