Almost 90 per cent of collision in Grande Prairie happen at intersections, making it an easy choice for local enforcement to focus on this month. Traffic Safety Consultant Gordon Ellert reminds drivers that the penalties for bad driving went up last year.
“Not stopping at intersections or not obeying traffic control devices are choices that we make, so then if people make that choice of going through a red light or making an unsafe left turn, basically they’re looking at a fine of $388 and three demerit points.”
Not stopping for a pedestrian is $776 plus four demerit points. Ellert says city enforcement handed out more than 2,300 of those kinds of tickets in 2014.
“One thing that’s created a real concern, especially in Grande Prairie, last year there was over 500 injury collisions at intersections which was three times the amount per capita in Alberta, so between enforcement and education we’re hoping that people will start to make better decisions.”
Drivers should also re-familiarize themselves with the safest way to turn left, what to do in an uncontrolled intersection, and how to handle flashing lights and emergency vehicles. A check stop will be held this afternoon on 100th Street.