Alberta RCMP Press Release:
A new year has begun, and the Alberta RCMP is providing intersection safety tips to help make our roads and highways safe for everyone.
Intersections are high-traffic areas in which all motorists, cyclists and pedestrians must exercise caution and maintain right-of-way rules.
Collisions resulting in casualties are often attributed to motorists failing to obey stop signs, failing to stop at red lights and making unsafe left turns.
Follow the below intersection safety tips to help stay safe:
Motorists:
- Slow down as you approach an intersection, stop and check all traffic before proceeding.
- Obey traffic signs and signals. Make a full stop at red lights and stop signs, even when you’re turning right.
- At a four-way stop, remember the right-of-way rule. You must yield to the vehicle on your right.
- Leave ample room between your vehicle and other vehicles. Vehicles in front of you may stop unexpectedly.
- Use your signal when making turns. Ensure it is safe to turn left before doing so.
- Pedestrians have the right-of-way in all marked and unmarked crosswalks. Pay attention to pedestrians crossing when making any turns or stopping at any intersections.
- Be prepared for the unexpected. Always look for pedestrians, changing lights, slippery road conditions and other drivers before proceeding through an intersection.
- Don’t speed up on a yellow light. A yellow light means slow down and prepare to stop.
Pedestrians:
- Never jaywalk. Check traffic before crossing and only proceed when it is safe to do so.
- Always use crosswalks and pedestrian-activated signals when they are available.
- Don’t be a distracted pedestrian. Remove headphones and put away cell phones or other electronic devices when crossing the street.
- Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.
“Intersections can present challenges for drivers and pedestrians,” says Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic.
“Always be prepared for the unexpected. Pay attention to changing lights and each other before proceeding through an intersection. Traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility.”
Posted January 10, 2026
