It's important to be sharp behind the wheel, especially when navigating busy intersections with a dynamic mix of traffic possible at any turn.
In small-town Saskatchewan it's limited to passenger vehicles, heavy haulers, motorcycles, along with pedestrians and cyclists of all ages. In the city that traffic mix could include taxis or buses, in addition to even more people walking the streets.
"The reality is, is that intersections are just really busy places. Drivers can encounter so many different things at an intersection," said Heather Hubic, Manager of SGI Media Relations in a spring interview. "That's why it's really important that drivers be alert, avoid any distraction, and just give the road their full attention when they come upon an intersection."
SGI stats show that around 37 per cent of all collisions in the province take place at intersections. While poor road conditions certainly play a factor in that number, the main causes still include the failure to yield, along with basic driver inattention.
Hubic and her team feel that if everyone can work together at intersections, that number would be cut down drastically.
"Whether you are a pedestrian, motorcyclist, or a driver; it's really alert that you are aware of your surroundings... Just make sure when you are coming up to that intersection in whatever capacity you are, that you are paying attention to what is going on around you and making sure everyone can make it home safely."
Staying alert at intersections can also save your wallet from getting lighter. Running a stop sign, red light, or failing to yield to either a sign or pedestrian will result in a $230 ticket and four demerits.
"I think driver inattention is super important for everyone to make sure they are being alert and paying attention to the road. When you are driving a vehicle it's just so important that you are taking responsibility, that you are in the driver's seat and you are in control of the vehicle." said Hubic, as even the best drivers can tend to get distracted sometimes.
The final message from Hubic — applicable anywhere on the road — was to keep your eyes peeled, scan the road to stay aware of surroundings. If everyone does their part, it will create a safer driving environment for everyone.