Mass. drivers are baffled by these new traffic lights

Massachusetts drivers are facing a new kind of red light — and many aren’t sure what to do.

Across the state, 40 hybrid traffic lights — or pedestrian hybrid beacons — have been installed with more on the way to help people safely cross roads. But the design is confusing drivers and causing safety issues , according to researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Unlike traditional traffic signals, these hybrid lights turn off when traffic moves freely, and are activated when a pedestrian presses the button to cross.

Then the light sequence begins : A flashing yellow indicates to drivers they should slow down. A solid yellow means prepare to stop. Then, two solid red lights appear, signaling drivers to stop completely, while pedestrians have a walk signal to cross. Finall