Unintended consequence of going Green.

[shinblind]

Looks like the new LED traffic signals are less than optimal in the snow belt regions.

"...weather conditions resulted in crashes involving 97 vehicles at 15 different locations across the city, including on 14 different bridges. While no one was seriously hurt, nine people — including two infants — were taken to hospital in stable condition, while "countless" others declined medical attention for minor injuries, police said."

What caused this to happen in Winnipeg? 

Seems the new LED traffic signals don't produce enough heat to melt the snow off of the lights.

Yes in the rush to save energy the lights weren't fully beta tested under all conditions.

Does anyone have any idea what kind of traffic lights we have locally since the last upgrade?

Will City Crews and Sheriff Deputies be stationed under traffic signals with a long pole and a mini squeegee to clear the lights every time it snows and the wind blows?

 http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/winnipeg-led-traffic-lights-...

[Willy]

I'm glad nobody was killed. It could have been worse. Our own moonbeam councilor has proposed a cost saving traffic signal for Ludington as well. It is pictured below. BIg savings can be had because bulbs can be purchased at WalMart or the Dollar Store.

[shinblind]

Good one Willy.  

[XLFD]

Maybe they need to use some solar powered lens-warmers for their traffic lights up in Winnepeg.

[stump]

When the LED lights came out on vehicles, semi drivers were the most impacted because of the snow build up on rear lights. My brother in law said he had to stop often to clear the lenses in the winter.

[stump]

That would be the ultimate cost savings wouldn't it. Having some city , county or state workers  depending what the road is classified as posted under the traffic lights to make sure there visible at all times .  

[Willy]

Good idea X. Solar panels to warm up the lights then install generators to back up the panels

[shinblind]

Genius

Thanks for the heads up Willy.

Now I will have to alter my patent app. for wind driven lens wipers to include an electric fan for when the wind doesn't blow and a generator for backup.

Rube Goldberg would be proud.