The Citizen continues its safer driving series with tips on what to do when encountering a yellow traffic signal.
When approaching a yellow light, the general rule is a required stop unless the driver can't stop safely in time.
RCMP members see plenty of motorists trying to beat the red light by driving through a "steady yellow," said RCMP Cst. Lesley Smith.
"The danger posed here is when you have a motorist going straight through the yellow light and another one trying to turn left at the same same time.
"Both vehicles can be at fault for insurance purposes," Smith said.
The yellow light is a warning that the light is about to change red. Drivers need to be aware of "the point of no return," said Smith.
"As you approach a stale green light and you know you will no longer be able to stop safely, you've reached the point of no return.
"Keep on going even if the light changes to yellow," she said.
"Try and judge it in a timely manner so you won't be in the intersection when the light turns red."
Another awkward and dangerous situation occurs when motorists creep into the intersection waiting for the traffic to clear to turn left, but the light changes to yellow then red. Who has right of way?
"The vehicle stuck in the intersection can legally go as soon as it's safe, even if the light has turned red, but watch carefully for other vehicles coming, especially those who are trying to beat that red light," said Smith.
However in many cases, motorists deliberately creep into those intersections where left turns are more difficult, and police discourage this, said Smith.
Those who do not use the yellow light for what it's intended can be fined $121 and receive two traffic points under Section 125 of the Motor Vehicle Act.
