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'Road safety is a shared responsibility,' RCMP

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Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013 | Comments: 0

In this January photo, two vehicles sit in the ditch at the junction of Veterans Way, Highway 340 and Waggle Springs Road after a collision. Police said at least one person was transported to hospital following the crash.

It’s a little known fact that collisions at intersections account for, on average, 22 per cent of all fatal crashes each year in rural Manitoba. That equates to about 16 people losing their lives at intersections every year.

While speed, alcohol and lack of seatbelt use account for many collisions on Manitoba highways, intersections by their very nature also pose significant risks to motorists.

An intersection is a dangerous place. Vehicles come from different directions and drivers and pedestrians need to pay close attention when they enter any intersection.

Running a red light or failing to stop at a stop sign is serious business.

In many collisions, drivers fail to pay due care and attention when entering intersections.

Intersections significantly raise the odds of getting into a collision ending in property damage, serious injuries or death.

"Behind every statistic is a real person," said Insp. Joanne Keeping, officer in charge of the RCMP "D" Division Traffic Services. "Road safety is a shared responsibility and we all need to do our part."

RCMP have issued the following intersection safety tips for motorists:

· Stay alert, avoid distractions.

· Be sure to look both ways before entering an intersection, even if you have the right of way.

· Always come to a complete stop at stop signs.

· Use your signals to indicate your intent to other drivers.

· Watch for pedestrians.

· Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.

· Do not speed up at amber lights, proceed with caution or stop if you can safely.

Under the Highway Traffic Act, the fine for failing to stop at a stop sign or red light is $203.80.

» Submitted

Republished from the Brandon Sun print edition February 14, 2013

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While speed, alcohol and lack of seatbelt use account for many collisions on Manitoba highways, intersections by their very nature also pose significant risks to motorists.

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While speed, alcohol and lack of seatbelt use account for many collisions on Manitoba highways, intersections by their very nature also pose significant risks to motorists.

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