This paper aims at overcoming the issues posed by fixed duration traffic light systems. These traditional systems are not robust and do not make optimal use of the road user’s time. We propose a simple, yet powerful solution to this issue. Through the use of image processing, the number of vehicles at any point of time is calculated. Using this information, traffic is controlled in a dynamic manner using a priority-based system. This results in a system that is efficient, easy to implement, and cost-effective. © 2019, Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.