All-way stops are used to control vehicle right-of-way at an intersection. They are not, as some might think, speed control devices. In fact, studies have shown that the installation of unwarranted all-way stops can lead to poor driver compliance, as drivers become accustomed to not meeting opposing traffic at these locations.
A number of factors are considered before installing all-way stops. First, staff must conduct a traffic study to count through-traffic and turning traffic on both the main and secondary streets to ensure that the intersection meets minimum vehicle counts. Spot speed studies may be conducted, along with a collision analysis of the intersection.
Traffic studies are typically completed on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. Traffic counts are not completed during the summer months due to irregular traffic patterns. Within new subdivisions, traffic studies will not be completed until almost all of the construction has been completed and mature traffic patterns have been established.
Should you wish to have an intersection reviewed for an all-way stop, please send a written request to:
Coordinator, Traffic and Parking
Engineering Services Department
150 Mary Street Milton, On L9T 6Z5
For more information on this topic, please use our Feedback form to submit comments or inquiries to: 'engineering'
Phone: 905 878-7252 ext 2500
Fax: 905 876-5029