how do traffic light sensors work australia

In Australia, most traffic lights are run by SCATS and detect vehicles with inductive loop sensors—those squiggly saw-cuts in the asphalt that sniff for metal.

Many intersections also use video, radar or infrared detectors, plus the humble pedestrian push-button, to decide when to change phases and how long to stay green.

On a quiet night you might feel invisible; motorcycles and bicycles can help by stopping right over the loop cuts and keeping some metal squarely above them.

Buses, trams and emergency vehicles can get priority at equipped sites, because saving minutes beats your dash to the servo for a meat pie.