The Perth County OPP'S detachment commander is concerned with the number of preventable collisions that have occurred at intersections so far in 2020.
Inspector Rob Scott said despite an 11 per cent decline in intersection related collisions, more needs to be done. He said many collisions occurring at intersections are caused by inattentive drivers and are therefore preventable.
In 2019, Perth County OPP investigated 732 collisions, and of those, 26 per cent (189) were either at an intersection or intersection related. Four people died in collisions on Perth County roads in 2019, and two of those were involving intersections.
So far in 2020, 83 of the 277 collisions reported in Perth County have been related to/at an intersection - which is about 30 per cent of collisions. One person has already died in an intersection related collision this year.
At this time last year, Perth County OPP had responded to 93 intersection related collisions, which is 10 more than 2020 so far.
Drivers need to ensure they are taking the extra seconds to double-check the way is clear before proceeding into an intersection. Drivers who have the right-of-way also need to ensure they look ahead as they approach intersections.
Parents and caregivers of young/novice drivers are encouraged to teach the skills required to safely arrive at their destination. Never allow cell phone use while driving, even when stopped in traffic or at a light. Practice coming to a complete stop, looking both directions to ensure the way is clear - and then look again before proceeding into the intersection. Don't be in a rush - when drivers are in a hurry, they will be more likely to miss seeing an oncoming vehicle, or think they can beat oncoming traffic.
"While the Perth County OPP and our traffic safety partners remain committed to saving lives on our roads, drivers, passengers, and other road users can significantly contribute to safe roads by avoiding risks and complying with all traffic laws, and taking an extra moment to stop, look… and look again," said Inspector Scott.
