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Stop Signs
A stop sign, when used
appropriately, is intended to help drivers and pedestrians decide
who has the right-of-way at the intersection.
Uncontrolled intersection (those
without stop signs, yield signs, or traffic signals) may initially
appear unreasonably dangerous; however, they have proven to be safe
when traffic volumes are low.
Stop signs are commonly misused as
a means of solving the non-intersection speeding problem. Stop
signs installed in attempts to slow traffic in Appleton have
resulted in a high incidence of intentional violation, speed
reduction in the stop sign's immediate vicinity, and higher speeds a
half-block from the stop signs. Setting a reasonable limit,
posting speed limit signs where appropriate, enforcement, and a
public information effort are more effective in curbing speeding.
Some drivers tend to disregard stop
signs, especially those where a stop does not appear to be
necessary. If the "less attentive" motorist meets
the "stop-sign-ignoring" driver, the potential for
accidents is great. If a school crossing has a stop sign, then
a vehicle which had been a problem for three seconds while
approaching and passing an intersection becomes a problem for a much
longer period. Neither the pedestrian nor the motorist is sure
when to proceed as intersections become busier and consequently,
less safe.
Appleton uses several criteria to
determine where intersection traffic controls are necessary.
Several crucial factors taken into consideration are vehicle volume,
sight distance, and accident rates. Often the review of
traffic control at an intersection reveals that other measures are
needed to maintain a safe situation, such as parking restrictions,
tree or hedge trimming, pavement markings, and speed enforcement.
The Traffic Engineering Division works with the Police Department
and other agencies in reviewing locations and implementing
recommendations. Citizen's requests for intersection control
studies can be made directly to the Traffic Engineering Division, at
(920) 832-6474.
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