PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Drivers in Pinellas County are urged to exercise extreme caution as widespread power outages caused by Hurricane Milton have rendered a large number of traffic signals inoperable.
Deputies and local police agencies are working to staff as many intersections as possible, but resources are stretched thin. Worryingly, some drivers are exacerbating the danger by failing to stop at intersections as required by law.
READ: Pinellas County Lifts Evacuation Order, But Urges Residents To Stay Off The Roads
Treat Inoperable Signals as Four-Way Stops
“It’s critical that drivers remember to treat intersections with non-functioning traffic signals as four-way stops,” emphasized a Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson. “This is not only the law, but it’s essential for preventing accidents and keeping everyone safe.”
Additional Safety Reminders
- Watch for workers: Crews are actively clearing debris and making repairs. Be mindful of their presence and follow all directional instructions and detour signs.
- Drive with caution: Be aware of potential hazards on the roads, such as downed trees, power lines, and floodwaters.
- Be patient: Recovery efforts are underway, and delays are to be expected.
READ: St. Petersburg Issues Citywide Boil Water Notice Following Hurricane Milton
By exercising caution and following traffic laws, drivers can help ensure their safety and the safety of others as Pinellas County recovers from Hurricane Milton.
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