At first glance, it may seem that such a solution is dangerous. Some even believe that it is contrary to regulations. In reality, conflicting pedestrian and vehicle movements are an element of properly designed traffic lights. In such a case, however, the driver must exercise particular caution and give way to a pedestrian on the crossing. This follows directly from road traffic regulations.
For drivers traveling from Kościuszki Street and turning left onto Tamka Street, the green light permits entry into the intersection, but does not release them from the obligation to exercise caution and give way to pedestrians on the crossing. The signal for drivers (at the pedestrian crossing) also features a flashing yellow light with a pedestrian symbol, drawing attention to the possibility of pedestrians appearing.
A similar situation occurs at the pedestrian crossing by Łokietka Street in Bolesławiec. There, drivers set off from Kubika Street and turn right, while pedestrians (on Łokietka Street) have a green light at the crossing and must be given priority. There, too, drivers are warned by a flashing yellow light with a pedestrian symbol.
The road authority has already explained this traffic-light arrangement
Interestingly, this is not a new problem. As early as 2016, the arrangement at the Tamka–Kościuszki intersection was the subject of an intervention and explanations by Dolnośląska Służba Dróg i Kolei. The road authority explained at the time that during a specific phase, pedestrians could have a green light simultaneously with cars leaving the viaduct area. This solution was described as compliant with regulations.
In practice, this means that a green light for a driver does not automatically give the driver priority over a pedestrian. If a car turns and crosses a crossing where a pedestrian has a green light, the driver must let the pedestrian pass. This also applies when both streams of traffic receive a green light at the same time. This solution is intended to improve traffic flow at intersections and shorten the time needed to change the lights.
The question remains, however, whether the current signal arrangement is sufficiently clear and safe for all road users. Especially during periods of heavier traffic, drivers turning at the intersection must simultaneously monitor the signals, other vehicles and the pedestrian crossing.
Should this solution remain in place, or should the traffic lights at the Tamka–Kościuszki intersection be changed so that vehicle and pedestrian movements do not conflict? What do you think?
It is worth reading an earlier article devoted to this situation:
Dangerous at the pedestrian crossing on Tamka Street in Bolesławiec?