January is the month of intersection safety.
The Alberta Traffic Safety Plan says that 90-percent of accidents in intersections are attributed to driver error.
In Canada 30-percent of intersection collisions result in death, and 40-percent in serious injuries
It is reminding drivers to drive properly and safely as intersections can be complex – and for inattentive drivers, it can be quite confusing as multi-tasking takes place to proceed through safely.
Pedestrians are asked to take just as much care before crossing the street.
RCMP say that pedestrians looking to cross the street should make eye contact with the drivers waiting at the lights before crossing.
(From Release)
Did you know?
–> An uncontrolled intersection is any intersection that does not have any traffic control device such as signals or signs. When approaching an uncontrolled intersection check left and right for traffic, slow down and be prepared to stop. Always yield the right of way to the vehicle on the right.
–> An intersection where the traffic control device is not functioning properly is to be treated like an all-way stop. Vehicles are to come to a complete stop at the stop line and take turns proceeding into the intersection after yielding to traffic already in the intersection. When in doubt as to which vehicle was first, always yield to the right. Failure to do so is a $115 fine.
–> Directions given by a police officer overrule traffic signs or signals. Drivers are to pay close attention to directions and be alert to when they may proceed through the intersection. Failure to obey directions of a police officer could result in a fine of $172.
–> Emergency vehicles with lights and sirens activated are given the right of way when proceeding through intersection. Other vehicles are to stop and pull over to the right side to allow emergency vehicles to pass through the intersection safely. Failure to do so could result in a $172 fine.
–> Flashing red lights at an intersection act as a stop sign, vehicles must come to a stop before crossing the stop line or crosswalk. Vehicles facing flashing amber lights may proceed with caution after yielding to pedestrians and other traffic in the intersection.
–> Signal lights changing from green to yellow means slow down. Drivers proceeding through intersections on yellow lights by speeding up or engaging in other dangerous driving patterns risk facing a minimum fine of $115.
–> Although drivers are permitted to turn right on a red light in Alberta unless otherwise marked, vehicles must come to a complete stop prior to entering the intersection and may proceed only when safe to do so. Failure to do so could result in a fine of $287.
–> Vehicles should not engage an intersection if there exists the probability that they will end up impeding other traffic. Keep intersections clear so that other traffic may proceed if the signal lights change colour.
–>Pedestrians always have the right of way at an unmarked intersection or stop sign unless otherwise indicated by signage. Pedestrians also have the right of way when using marked crosswalks properly. Failure to yield to pedestrians could result in a $575 fine.
January 2nd, 2013
