Tram semaphore are obsolete

Trams use obsolete and relatively dangerous stoplights in Prague as well as in another Czech cities. Some Prague cross-roads are dangerous because a tram has almost no time between tram “red light” and green light for cars.

Tram semaphores are different from usual road semaphores. They has T-shape made of four lights. Combination of alighted lights shows which way the tram can ride (left, right, straight) or if has to stop. But this monochromatic semaphore has one problem: A driver of tram can’t be prepared for stop sign, there is no yellow “set!” light.

This mean that driver can reach the cross-road in same time when stop sign appears. It is impossible to stop immediately, because of safety of passengers, so the tram has to continue in ride. But green light for drivers appears in very close time, at some places after three seconds.

That’s why Prague a council-member Mr. Steiner want to discuss with other city halls in Czech Republic and try to change traffic law. This can bring new semaphores, like has Germany or Austria. This would be great help for drivers of trams as well as for car drivers.