I know that they mean that there is a red signal after a diverging junction setting (like just after Rainham), but I want to know why we can't just have regular yellows and reds, instead of the flashing sequence we have.
My simplistic understanding is that they are advance warning of divergence from the main line and the likely need to slow down. Otherwise it could be a little too late if a driver suddenly encounters a feather indicator he wasn’t expecting.
I remember hearing that flashing yellows were introduced in the late 80s. I'm not sure where though so that could be wrong. The idea is that they provide a warning of a diverging route when using an approach to a red signal would be too restrictive. For example, a reduction from 125 to 75 on a diverging route. You would want to warn the driver to slow down, but having them approach a red signal would result a greater speed reduction than required.
I see. Thinking about it, the junction after Rainham is limited to just 60, so a red signal would perhaps be too restrictive. Thank you!
