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What to do if a traffic light is out after Southeast Michigan storm

By Amber Ainsworth
Published  August 30, 2022 10:12am EDT
News
FOX 2 Detroit
article

DETROIT (FOX 2) - You may encounter some traffic lights out Tuesday, as areas across Southeast Michigan are dealing with power outages following Monday evening's storm.

Check the latest power outage updates here.

If a traffic signal is out, there are laws for how to handle dark lights.

In Michigan, a traffic signal that is out is treated as a four-way stop.

More: How to apply for reimbursement from DTE, Consumers Energy

So, treat an intersection without a working light the same way you would treat an intersection with four stop signs: vehicles at each side of the intersection take turns going, beginning with whoever was there first.

The law used to say to follow right-of-way rules when approaching a traffic light that is out, but that changed back in 2018.

Related: What to do if you see a downed power line

Residents affected by power outages can apply for credit

Under rules employed by the Michigan Public Service Commission, if someone has lost power for more than 16 hours they are eligible for a $25 credit to recoup losses. Here are other eligibility requirements.