Last Updated on July 22, 2025 by Beltz Law Group
Understanding “Disregarding a Green Arrow” Traffic Tickets in Texas (Texas Transportation Code 544.007)
Traffic Ticket Defense Texas
While not the most common traffic violation, receiving a ticket for “disregarding a green arrow” can happen and carries consequences. This charge typically arises when a driver fails to adhere to the specific rules governing a green arrow signal, even though the arrow itself indicates permission to proceed. Understanding the relevant Texas statute is crucial if you find yourself in this situation. This article outlines the law and explains how the Beltz Law Group can assist you in defending against such a ticket.
The Law: Texas Transportation Code, Section 544.007
The rules governing all traffic-control signals, including green arrows, are found in Texas Transportation Code Section 544.007: TRAFFIC-CONTROL SIGNALS IN GENERAL. This comprehensive statute dictates how drivers must react to various colored lights and lighted arrows at intersections.
For our purposes, Subsection (c) specifically addresses green arrow signals:
(c) An operator of a vehicle facing a green arrow signal, displayed alone or with another signal, may cautiously enter the intersection to move in the direction permitted by the arrow or other indication shown simultaneously. The operator shall stop and yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian lawfully in an adjacent crosswalk and shall yield the right-of-way to other traffic lawfully using the intersection.
While a circular green signal (Subsection b) allows for straight, right, or left turns (unless prohibited), a green arrow specifically indicates a permitted movement in the direction of the arrow. However, this permission is not absolute.
What Does “Disregarding a Green Arrow” Mean?
The common misconception is that a green arrow means an unimpeded right-of-way. While it grants permission to proceed in the indicated direction, Subsection (c) clearly outlines two critical obligations that, if ignored, can lead to a “disregard green arrow” violation:
- Yield to Pedestrians: Even with a green arrow, you must stop and yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian lawfully in an adjacent crosswalk. Failing to do so is a violation.
- Yield to Other Lawful Traffic: You must also yield the right-of-way to other traffic lawfully using the intersection. This often applies to situations where another vehicle might be completing a turn, or if there’s traffic already in the intersection that had the right-of-way before your arrow turned green. The key here is “lawfully using the intersection.”
North Texas Traffic Ticket Defense Lawyer
Therefore, a “disregard green arrow” ticket isn’t about running a red light. Instead, it typically means:
- Failing to yield to a pedestrian who had the right-of-way while you were proceeding on a green arrow.
- Failing to yield to cross-traffic that was lawfully within the intersection when you began your turn on a green arrow.
- Proceeding without caution when entering the intersection, leading to a dangerous situation.
Defending Against a “Disregard Green Arrow” Ticket
Even though these tickets are less common, they can still result in fines, points on your driving record, and potentially increased insurance premiums. Defending against them often involves demonstrating that you did, in fact, adhere to the requirements of the statute.
Arguments in your defense might include:
- No Pedestrians Present: If the citation was for failing to yield to a pedestrian, proving there were no pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk when you proceeded.
- No Lawful Cross-Traffic: Arguing that there was no “other traffic lawfully using the intersection” that you were required to yield to.
- Officer’s Observation Error: Contending that the officer’s view was obstructed or their observation of the event was inaccurate.
- Clarity of the Situation: Presenting evidence that you proceeded cautiously and that any perceived failure to yield was not a violation of the statute.
Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney
Each case is unique, and the specific facts surrounding your citation will dictate the best defense strategy.
Contact Beltz Law Group for Assistance
If you have received a “disregard green arrow” ticket in Texas, don’t underestimate its potential impact. The experienced traffic ticket defense attorneys at Beltz Law Group are here to help you understand the nuances of Texas transportation law and build a strong defense. We will review the details of your case, advise you on your options, and work to protect your driving record.
Contact our office today at 214-321-4105 for a consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and work towards a favorable outcome for your traffic citation.
