Manitoba RCMP is reminding the public to be safe and alert when approaching an intersection.
In a statement Friday, RCMP said there is an average of 15 intersection-related deaths in the province each year. It urges drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to come to a complete stop and assess when an intersection is safe to enter.
In Manitoba, approximately 70 per cent of rural intersection fatalities occur where a gravel road meets a major highway.
“Collisions at intersections are completely avoidable as long as everyone takes responsibility and drives with caution,” said Joanne Keeping, officer in charge of “D” Division Traffic Services.
RCMP provided a list of things 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.
