Driving tips for power outages

Power outages can occur at anytime. When a power outage takes place, several “blacked out” or inoperative intersections can occur. These blackouts or inoperative intersections are very dangerous due to the fact that not all people see the uncontrolled intersection and do not stop. Some drivers simply don’t know what to do. After stopping at these intersections, please proceed with caution.

California Vehicle Code § 21800(d)(1) states: “The driver of any vehicle approaching an intersection which has official traffic control signals that are inoperative shall STOP at the intersection, and may proceed with caution when it is safe to do so.”

In other words, treat the intersection as if it was a four-way stop sign intersection.

Remember, if in doubt as to who has the right of way, let the other guy go first.