Chief’s Corner

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar

Dudley Police Department

            I received a few questions about a particular intersection in Town.  The Airport Road and West Main Street intersection is one of our three lane intersections which can be somewhat confusing.  I was asked if someone wishes to enter the Cumberland Farms lot while traveling east on West Main Street, is it proper to be in “left turn only” lane for Airport Road or should they stay in the through lane?
            The “left turn only” lane at this intersection is present to allow for a turn onto Airport Road.  When this area was redesigned several years ago, this intersection was widened to allow vehicles to turn left while at the same time providing sufficient room for other cars to continue along West Main Street.  A left turn after this intersection should not be made from the “left turn only” lane.  This could cause an accident with vehicles traveling east on West Main Street.  Other drivers may assume a vehicle in the left turn lane is traveling to Airport Road.
            The proper way to make a turn into the Cumberland Farms lot is to stay in the through lane and move to the left after the intersection.  It would be safest to enter into the second entrance to allow other vehicles sufficient time to observe the signals and adjust their operation accordingly.  This movement should eliminate any confusion on behalf of others drivers.
            It is important to watch your speed and be aware of your surroundings when driving.  Do not assume others will be thinking in the same way you are.  By paying attention to other vehicle movements, you have a better chance of avoiding accidents and injuries.

VALGO Construction of Dudley is once again holding a Boston Red Sox Ticket Raffle to benefit the Dudley DARE Program.  Winners selected will receive tickets to a Red Sox home game this Season.  All proceeds of this raffle go to the Dudley Police DARE Program.  Tickets are $1 each and are available at Peter’s Hair Salon on West Main Street and O’Connor and Company Insurance on Village Street.  The drawing will take place on August 1^st.  My thanks go to VALGO Construction for their support of the DARE program.

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