Traffic controller signals in Lithuania
If the traffic lights fail, a crash happens or a heavy jam builds up, a traffic controller may appear in the middle of the junction. Controllers are rare on Lithuanian roads, so even experienced drivers often forget what their signals mean. The good news: there are only three basic signals, and they are easy to learn.
Who is a traffic controller?
A controller is a person authorised to direct traffic, wearing a uniform or a distinguishing mark — an armband, a controller's baton, a disc with a red reflector or a bright flag. Most often controllers are police officers; a crossing attendant, a road worker or another authorised person may also act as one.
The controller's instructions override traffic lights, road signs, markings and the general Rules. Road users should not only watch but also listen — the controller signals upcoming changes with a whistle. Signals are not shown periodically; their duration depends on traffic intensity in each direction.
The three basic signals
1. Arm raised up
All road users are prohibited from moving in any direction; drivers must stop without changing lanes. STOP for everyone.
2. Arms stretched to the sides or lowered
From the controller's right and left sides, vehicles may go straight or turn right, and pedestrians may cross the carriageway. From the chest and back sides, all vehicle and pedestrian movement is prohibited. In short: controller's side towards you — go straight or right; chest or back towards you — STOP.
3. Right arm extended forward
- From the controller's left side, vehicles may go in all directions.
- From the chest side, vehicles may only turn right.
- From the back side and the right side, all vehicle movement is prohibited.
- Pedestrians may cross behind the controller's back.
Reading it in practice: back towards you — STOP; the extended arm closer to you (shoulder towards you, arm as a "barrier") — STOP; facing you with the right arm extended at you — you may only turn right; facing you with the left arm extended — you may only turn left; the extended arm farther from you (the lowered arm's shoulder towards you) — you may drive in all directions: straight, right, left and U-turn.
The stop signal from an officer
A driver must stop the vehicle (and a pedestrian must stop) when an inspecting officer or controller signals — by waving the baton or the red-reflector disc towards them, or ordering a stop over a loudspeaker. The STOP signal may also be shown on an electronic panel of a marked service vehicle. To draw attention, the officer may whistle. On receiving the stop signal, the driver must stop immediately at the place indicated; if no place is indicated — on the right shoulder, or, where there is none, at the right edge of the carriageway.