By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department As has been addressed in recent weeks, the new traffic signals at the intersection of Routes 12 and 197 have resulted in many comments and questions. Right turns on red at this traffic light occur frequently. Some drivers turning from Village to West Main Street may not allow sufficient space for the left turning traffic entering Village Street. As a result, there have been some close calls. A person discussing this situation with me thought it was important to remind drivers of the proper procedures to observe when making these right turns at a red signal. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 89 Section 8 is the law allowing a right turn, or a left turn in the case of a one-way street, at a red traffic signal. Two very important provisions must be observed prior to this movement. First, the vehicle must come to a full and complete stop prior to the crosswalk or in the location where stopping is intended at the particular intersection. An example of this can be the stop line. Second, the driver preparing to turn must yield the right of way to any vehicles or pedestrians traveling through the intersection as directed by the signals. This is important at the intersection in question. The roadway is very narrow and vehicles turning from West Main Street can come close to a vehicle turning from Village Street. Drivers must be aware of this situation. Also remember the act of "rolling" through intersections or a simple casual glance at traffic is not sufficient before turning at a red signal. Should an accident occur, it will most often be the fault of the person making this turn on red. It is most important to remember traffic signals at busy intersections are in place due to the heavy vehicle and/or pedestrian traffic. To disregard these signals or not give them the appropriate attention is a serious error. There are many dangers which can approach from seemingly all directions. Extra precautions should be taken in these places. Do not allow the possibility of saving of a few seconds of travel time, result the injury of another individual. |
Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.
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