Whether you’re on foot, on a bicycle or behind the wheel of a vehicle, safety and alertness at all intersections is imperative.
Unfortunately, rolling through stop signs, or not stopping at uncontrolled intersections are common practice.
Each year, the RCMP sees an average of 15 intersection-related deaths. Ensuring you come to a complete stop and assessing when the intersection is safe to enter could be life-changing decisions.
In Manitoba, approximately 70% of rural intersection fatalities occur where a gravel road meets a major highway. All drivers at an intersection need to pay attention and yield to oncoming traffic.
“Collisions at intersections are completely avoidable as long as everyone takes responsibility and drives with caution,” said Inspector Joanne Keeping, Officer in charge of “D” Division Traffic Services.
Points to consider when approaching an intersection:
- Stay alert – you have a lot of choices to make
- Complete a full stop at stop signs
- Use your signals to make other drivers aware of your intentions
- Watch for pedestrians
- Maintain a safe stopping distance from the vehicle in front of you – four seconds spacing between vehicles on the highway
- Do not speed up at amber lights. Instead, proceed with caution and stop if you can do so safely
- Finish your turn in the correct lane. Do not turn wide into a farther lane or veer in to a closer lane. Complete your turn and then make a safe lane change
- Do not try to “beat” oncoming traffic. Highway speeds are easily misjudged and large commercial semi-trailers carry heavy loads and are not able to stop quickly. Wait until the road is clear
- Remember the “rule of the right”: At an uncontrolled intersection, vehicles arriving at the same time will yield to the car to the right
- Even if you have the right of way, be aware of the other vehicles and be prepared
- Only proceed when it is completely safe to do so
Under the Highway Traffic Act, the fine for failing to stop at a stop sign or red light is $203.80.
