Traffic Lights Tips Every HGV Driver Should Know

Driving a big rig means you see traffic lights a lot. One wrong move can cost time, money, or even safety. Below are easy tips you can start using right now.

Read the Signals Like a Pro

Red means stop, but the way you stop matters. Bring the truck to a complete halt before the stop line. If you stop too early, you waste space; too late, you risk a ticket.

Amber is the trickiest. For an HGV, the rule is clear: if the light turns amber while you’re still moving, you may keep going, but only if you can stop safely without stopping in the intersection. Check your speed and the distance to the stop line. A good rule of thumb is to start braking when you’re about twice the length of your vehicle away from the line.

Green means go, but don’t rush. Make sure the lane ahead is clear and give yourself room to accelerate smoothly. Heavy vehicles need more time to get up to speed, so a gentle press on the accelerator helps keep the flow.

Handling HGVs at Lights

Use your mirrors. When the light turns amber, glance at the rear to see if a car is closing in fast. If it is, it might be safer to finish the turn rather than stop in the middle of the road.

Position your truck for the next move. If you’re turning left, line up early so you don’t have to swing wide at the last second. If you’re going straight, keep a straight line to avoid drifting into other lanes when the light changes.

Watch for pedestrian crossings. Even if the light is green for you, a crossing signal may still be flashing. Slow down and be ready to stop.

Plan ahead for stacked lights. In city centers, you’ll see several lights in a row. Keep an eye on the next signal while you’re waiting at the current one. This helps you choose the best gear and speed for the upcoming stop.

Maintain a safe following distance. Heavy vehicles need longer stopping distances, especially in wet weather. Keeping a gap of at least three seconds behind the car ahead gives you enough time to react to a sudden amber.

Check your brakes regularly. A well‑kept brake system gives you confidence when you need to stop hard on an unexpected amber.

Finally, stay calm. Traffic lights can be frustrating, but rushing or guessing leads to mistakes. Follow the tips above, and you’ll drive smoother, safer, and faster through the city.