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Why signal synchronization is needed

Drivers often get frustrated when they have to stop at successive traffic lights, or when they have to wait a long time for a green light, especially when there appears to be no traffic in the other directions. Traffic signals are designed to distribute the green time to conflicting traffic streams, generally based on the traffic volumes. If the traffic on a main street is considerably higher than the side street, more green time may be given to the main street which could result in a longer wait for drivers on the side street. However, synchronizing signals along a main street can benefit all motorists because once a vehicle enters the main street, it may continue with minimal stopping. Hence, it is beneficial for both the main street and side street traffic. The goal of synchronization is to get the greatest number of vehicles through the intersections with the fewest stops.