Intersection Safety

Lethbridge Police are shining the light on the importance of intersection safety as its Select Traffic Enforcement Program for January.

In 2021, one in four (26.6%) collisions were intersection-related. In Alberta over 2021, 42 people died and 5,989 were injured in intersection related collisions. Some of the most common driver errors include making an unsafe left turn and disregarding a stop sign or red light. When excessive speed is added into the mix, the likelihood of a collision increases.

Given the potentially devastating impact of such traffic infractions, police have a low tolerance for those which occur at intersections. Unfortunately, it is neither feasible nor practical to post a police officer at every major intersection. This is where intersection safety devices more commonly known as red light cameras come into play. These devices have proven to be effective in reducing collisions and casualties by getting motorists to reduce their speed and stop for red lights. When conventional enforcement is not an option, these devices are a tool to help make the roads safer for everyone.

Enforcement alone is not enough to make our intersections safer. There also needs to be a greater awareness of the need to make safe driving decisions.

Here are some tips to stay safe while driving though intersections:

• Always look before proceeding through an intersection – remember the road is also shared with pedestrians
• Leave an abundance of room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front
• Ensure it is safe to turn left before making the turn
• Ensure you come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs
• Adjust your driving for the road conditions