You may see many emergency vehicles on the roads every day and think, can they change traffic signals? Well, answer to this question depends on the type of vehicle and traffic signal.
So, we have prepared this article to clear all your confusion about the connection between traffic signals and emergency vehicles.
How Do Emergency Vehicles Change Traffic Lights?
Ambulance Traffic Light Control
As you know, ambulances are emergency vehicles. Therefore, many people assume that they can control the traffic signal and change them. It is true. As a driver when you reach a junction, you send a signal toward the traffic lights.
This signal is detected by some modern signal lights. After the detection, the light turns green to give a way to your ambulance. Always remember, this is possible when your vehicle and traffic lights are equipped with signal detection devices.
Fire Truck
Fire trucks are big vehicles and need more space to move. When you are on the way to save victims you face many intersections. So, you send a request by transmitter to end the red light. If the junction has a modern signal detection system it will receive your request.
But if the traffic signal has no specific tools or devices then it is not possible for you to reach on time.
Police Vans
Some people also ask, can the police change traffic lights? Well, your police van also follows the same setup that is used by ambulances or fire trucks. Because, police vans are also included in emergency vehicles.
Sometimes, as a police officer you have to break traffic signals on your own without any device. This can be risky, so you must use sirens to warn others.
Rescue Unit
Your rescue unit often deals with urgent situations. They do not control every traffic light on their way. Instead, they move carefully through intersections. You can use sirens and lights to alert other drivers.
In some areas, these vehicles also send messages to get a green light. But mostly, they depend on other drivers to give way safely.
Medical Assistance Van
Actually, this van is used to supply medicines in rural areas. Therefore, it is not always in a hurry. But in case of natural disaster or urgent medical need they are counted in emergency vehicles.
This is why you may see some vans are equipped with transmitters to send requests for green light.
Hazardous Materials Apparatus
A Hazmat vehicle is a special emergency truck used by firefighters and first responders. It deals with dangerous things like chemical spills or gas leaks. This is why it also has specialized tools that can communicate with modern traffic signals.
What is Used to Change Traffic Lights for Emergency Vehicles?
Emergency vehicles use special systems to change traffic lights. They use tools like strobe lights, infrared signals and modern GPS or mobile networks to make it work.
Optical/Infrared Systems: Your vehicle has a flashing or coded light on the top. A sensor at the intersection reads it and tells the traffic light to change.
GPS and Wireless Systems: Some modern vehicles use GPS, mobile networks and radio signals to connect with traffic control. Basically, this system tracks your vehicle’s location, speed and direction. After that, it changes the lights to clear your way.
Sound Sensors: Some systems even detect the sound of a siren and trigger the lights to give you a path.
MIRT Traffic Light Changer / Traffic Light Changer Remote
MIRT is a traffic preemption device that is used by authorized vehicles to turn the traffic lights. Actually, it is installed on the dashboard or light bar of your vehicle. On the other hand, you can see an optical sensor or receiver placed on the traffic lights.
These two devices communicate with each other to give way to emergency vans. So, when the sensor on a traffic signal gets a signal of 14 HZ it turns on the green light. Moreover, these devices can work well in a range of up to 1500 feet.
To Summarize
I shared almost all the key points you need to know about emergency vehicles and traffic lights. Now you understand how these systems clear the way for your ambulance, fire truck or police van. So when you see the light change fast, you know why it happens.
FAQ
Is it Illegal To Use a Traffic Light Changer?
Yes, it is against the law for regular people to use a device to change traffic lights. If you are caught by police with such a device you can be punished. Only emergency cars like police vans, fire trucks and ambulances are allowed to use it. Sometimes, public transport or construction vehicles can use it during urgent or official work.
Can You Control Traffic Lights From Your Phone?
No, you can not control traffic lights with mobile phones. Because the traffic sensors use a safe & control system. Plus, their infrastructure is designed according to a pre programmed frequency that is generated by traffic light changer devices.
Further Helpful Topics:
Traffic Light Control System – Your Complete Guide 2026
Traffic Laws and Regulations For Safe Driving
Traffic Lights: Meaning of Colors and Their Uses
How Do Temporary Traffic Lights Work? A Comprehensive Guide
Traffic Light vs Traffic Signal: Main Differences
