Every year there are a high number of intersection crashes in Christchurch so be ‘onto it’ at intersections and stay safe on our roads.

Red means stop, not chance itLocal research shows that 95% of us agree that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.  

Being onto it at intersections is a way we can all keep safer on roads, and we are rolling out a number of initiatives to improve safety at intersections:

  • installing turning arrows at intersections, with more planned over the next 12 months
  • making major upgrades to intersections and road environments
  • collaborating with NZ Police to improve enforcement at intersections
Yellow means stop, if you can safely.

Yellow means stop, if you can safely.

How you can be onto it while you’re on the roads

Stay alert

As you approach an intersection, focus on what is happening around you and make sure to look around. Poor observation and distraction(external link) is a factor in over 50% of all crashes at intersections.

Slow down

Ease up on your speed(external link), a yellow light means stop unless you’re so close to the intersection that you can’t stop safely. 

Red means stop

Don’t chance it, a red light means stop(external link). Failure to give way or stop is a factor in almost 60% of all crashes at intersections.

Turning safely

Before turning or crossing into the path of others, make sure to check your surroundings. Almost 60% of crashes at intersections are due to crossing or turning into the path of others.(external link)

Stay in your lane

When turning into a road with multi-lanes, stay in the same lane(external link) throughout the turn. Before you change lanes, indicate for at least three seconds.

Don’t block the intersection

Before you cross an intersection make sure you can make it to the other side, this helps improve traffic flow and congestion for everyone. Blocking an intersection(external link) can also make it difficult for emergency vehicles and can create a dangerous situation for both drivers and pedestrians.