Halifax Regional RCMP Detachment Traffic Unit (HDTU) has noted an increase in collisions at intersections and many examples of motorists not knowing the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Act.
HDTU would like to remind drivers of their responsibilities when operating a vehicle at an intersection, including:
- When approaching an intersection with a red light or stop sign, you must come to a full and complete stop behind the sign, signal, or line. Drivers should stop behind painted stop lines, or at the nearest side of a crosswalk if there is not a painted line.
- When approaching a yellow/amber light, stop at the intersection in the same way as if the light was red. The only exception is if you are so close to the intersection when the light turns yellow that it would be unsafe to stop.
- When the light turns yellow, speeding up to enter the intersection is not only unsafe, it's illegal.
- When waiting to turn left and the light turns yellow, entering the intersection to "make the light" and then proceeding on red is illegal.
- When at an intersection with a yield sign, drivers shall yield the right of way to all other traffic in, or closely approaching, the intersection.
- Drivers should always watch for pedestrians crossing at intersections. Please take the extra time to ensure that there is no one in the crosswalk, or entering the crosswalk, before proceeding.
RCMP officers monitor intersections and enforce the Motor Vehicle Act when infractions are observed. Please take the time to slow down and follow the rules of the road to ensure everyone's safety.