With the dawn of a new year, Alberta’s RCMP is encouraging all users of Alberta’s roadways to adopt some safe habits, particularly in high-traffic areas that require motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to move near each other.
According to the Alberta RCMP, after analyzing the data the greatest causes of casualty collisions are failing to obey a stop sign, failing to stop at a red light, and conducting unsafe left-hand turns.
To help keep everyone safe on the road, the RCMP advises all drivers to:
-Slow down as you approach an intersection, stop and check all traffic before proceeding.
-Obey traffic signs and signals. Make a full stop at red lights and stop signs, even when turning right.
-At a four-way stop, remember the Right of Way rule. You must yield to the vehicle on your right
-Pedestrians have the right of way in all marked and unmarked crosswalks. Pay attention to pedestrians crossing when making any turns or at an all-way stop.
-Be prepared for the unexpected. Alwayslook for pedestrians, changing lights, slippery road conditions and other drivers before proceeding through an intersection.
-Don’t try to speed up on a yellow light. A yellow light means slow down and prepare to stop.
-Leave ample room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front. It might stop unexpectedly.
-Use your signal when making turns. Ensure it is safe to turn left before doing so.
Pedestrians have their part to play in road safety as well. Pedestrians are reminded to:
-Never jaywalk. Check traffic before crossing and only proceed when it is safe to do so.
-Always use crosswalks and pedestrian-activated signals when they are available.
-Don’t be a distracted pedestrian. Remove headphones; put away cell phones or other electronic devices when crossing the street.
-Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.
“When approaching an intersection, always be prepared for the unexpected. Pay attention to pedestrians, changing lights and other drivers before proceeding through an intersection,” says Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic unit.
“Traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we all have a part to play.”
Follow #TrafficSafety on the Alberta RCMP Facebook page, @RCMPinAlberta, or X (formerly Twitter), @RCMPAlberta, for more information.