Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department I receive traffic related questions often, including the proper way to make a right turn at a red traffic signal. One area of focus in Dudley is the intersection of Airport Road and West Main Street. This is very busy and many operators “roll through” the intersection when turning right onto Airport Road from West Main. This is a unique location in some way, as there are two roads and a business driveway which intersect in a four-way manner. A resident recently had an issue while making a right turn here. They missed traffic exiting the business driveway. I was asked to remind people of the correct way to make these turns and bring this traffic situation to the attention of drivers in the area. 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 intersection. An example of this is 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. The act of "rolling" through intersections or a casual glance at traffic is not sufficient in these locations. Should an accident occur, it will most often be the fault of the person making this turn on red. At the intersection in question, drivers turning must be aware of any traffic or pedestrians in the intersection before turning. Vehicles can come from a variety of directions, including the business driveway, and most will have the green light.It is critical to take the extra moment to stop, look, and proceed only when safe to do so. In those intersections where there is a sign prohibiting these turns, there is generally a good reason. At any intersection where signals are in place, studies have been conducted on the traffic conditions in that area. These will include vehicular and pedestrian volume, speeds, and crash data. Where there is a high volume of crashes, extra conditions will be in place to reduce the risk. In addition, crosswalks and turn arrows are given the appropriate consideration. For example, if there is high pedestrian volume or if a particular turn arrow will activate at a set time, it may be dangerous for right turns on red to take place. Often, drivers may not pay attention to traffic or people approaching from multiple directions. For precautionary reasons, it is safer to prohibit turns at these busy spots. |
It is most important to remember traffic signals at busy intersections are in place due to the heavy vehicle and/or pedestrian traffic. When drivers disregard these signals, make prohibited turns, or fail to pay added attention, problems can occur. There are many dangers which can approach from seemingly all directions. Do not allow the possibility of saving of a few seconds of travel time, result in an accident or injury.
For those still seeking vaccination information, it can be found at www.dudleyma.gov or by calling 508-949-8036. Please continue moving forward with the “re-opening” of our state in a reasonable manner. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. During these challenging times, we, at the Dudley Police Department, greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community. 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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