Stop Bar Safety Tips

Driver View from stop bar

Driver View rolling forward

Intersection visibility is vital, as it enables drivers to see approaching traffic and determine if it is safe to proceed into the intersection. Visibility can be a concern at some intersections, particularly where stop bars are set back from the intersection. Stop bars are placed to prioritize the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, installed behind crosswalks—or where a crosswalk would naturally extend—even if one isn’t marked. This placement is consistent with standard traffic engineering practices and indicates where drivers should initially stop in compliance with traffic control devices. After checking for pedestrians or cyclists, proceed carefully forward to improve your line of sight before entering the intersection. This is a common and expected driving practice that helps strike a balance between compliance with traffic control markings and the need for safe maneuvering in real-world conditions. 


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