Laserfiche WebLink
, T • <br /> I RAFFIC <br /> I NFORI.2ATION 8,110p <br /> • <br /> PROGRAM <br /> • <br /> SERIES • <br /> • <br /> • <br /> WHY DON'T THEY PUT IN MORE STOP SIGNS? <br /> A stop sign is one of our most valuable and effective control devices when used at the • <br /> right place.and under the right conditions. It is intended to help drivers and pedestrians at • <br /> • an intersection decide who has the right-of-way. <br /> One common misuse of stop signs• is to arbitrarily interrupt through traffic, either by <br /> • <br /> causing it to stop, or by causing such an inconvenience as to force the traffic to use other <br /> s. <br /> routes. Where stop signs are installed as "nuisances" or "speed breakers," there is a high <br /> incidence of intentional violation. In those locations where vehicles do stop, the speed <br /> • reduction is effective only in the immediate vicinity of the stop sign, and frequently <br /> speeds are actually higher between intersections. For these reasons, it should not be used <br /> as a speed control device. <br /> • A school crossing may look dangerous for children to use, causing parents to demand a <br /> stop sign to halt traffic. Now a vehicle which had been a problem for 3 seconds while <br /> . • • approaching and passing the intersection becomes a problem for a much longer period. <br /> A situation of indecision is created as to when to cross as a pedestrian or when to start as <br /> a motorist. Normal gaps in traffic through which crossings could be made safely no longer <br /> exist. An intersection which previously was not busy now looks like a major intersection. <br /> It really isn't — it just looks like it. It doesn't even look safer and it usually isn't. <br /> —_...._4.r.. Most drivers are reasonable and prudent with no intention of maliciously violating traffic <br /> regulations; however, when an unreasonable restriction is imposed, it may result in <br /> • <br /> flagrant violations. In such cases, the stop sign can create a false sense of security in a <br /> • pedestrian and an attitude of contempt in a motorist. These two attitudes can and often <br /> • do conflict with tragic results. <br /> Well-developed, nationally recognized guidelines help to indicate when such controls <br /> become necessary. These guidelines take into consideration, among other things, the <br /> probability of vehicle: ;:riving at an intersection at the same time, the length of time <br /> traffic must wait to enter, and the availability of safe crossing opportunities. <br /> • <br /> • <br /> • <br /> • <br /> _ "ir <br />