Can you change the light at intersections
Everyday I can see someone attempting to change the red light by creeping forward to trigger a sensor they believe is there. The fact is that city lights are generally timed. Not triggered by traffic.
In rural areas or infrequently travelled roads there are sometimes sensors used.
Look for signs of an inductive loop detector. As you pull up to an intersection, look for markings in the roadway that indicate an inductive loop that has been installed below the surface to detect the conductive metal in cars, bikes, and motorcycles.