Intersections

Where there are no traffic control signs, the driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle or pedestrian already in the intersection. When two vehicles approach an intersection from different streets or highways at approximately the same time, the right-of-way rule requires the driver of the vehicle on the left to yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.

The City will employ the least restrictive control device possible to achieve the desired results and safety. Where the right-of-way rule does not suffice, yield or stop signs are used where traffic engineering studies indicate that the use is warranted. Factors considered are:

• Vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian traffic volumes on all approaches
• Number and angle of approaches
• Approach speeds
• Sight distance available on each approach
• Reported collision experience

Yield or stop signs are usually used at an intersection if one or more of the following conditions exist:

• An intersection of a less important road with a main road;
• A street entering a designated through highway or street; or
• An unsignalized intersection in a signalized area.

Yield Signs

At intersections where a full stop is not necessary at all times, consideration is first given to using less restrictive measures such as yield signs. The yield sign indicates to drivers that they must yield the right-of-way, stopping if necessary, before entering the intersection area and must not proceed until it is safe to do so.

Stop Signs

The stop sign indicates to drivers that they must stop their vehicles completely before entering the intersection area and must not proceed until it is safe to do so.

Multi-way stop control is typically used where the volume of traffic on the intersecting roads is approximately equal.

Traffic signals promote the proper use of right-of-way at intersections and contribute to the safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians.

The Transportation Department is responsible for assessing, coordinating, installing, operating and maintaining 261 signalized intersections in Saskatoon. More than half of the traffic signals in Saskatoon are controlled by a centralized computer for real-time monitoring.

Several issues are considered when determining if an intersection should have traffic signals including:

• Vehicle and pedestrian volumes on the main street and side street(s)
• Collision history
• Traffic and roadway characteristics, such as vehicle speed and traffic delays
• Intersection lane configuration, sight lines and grades

Many signalized intersections in Saskatoon have vehicle detectors located at the stop lines on side streets which activate the green light. If you waited an excessively long time without receiving a green light, it is likely that your vehicle was not seen by the detector. Be sure to stop at the stop line to ensure that your vehicle is detected by the sensors.

Left-Turn Arrows

A left-turn arrow typically comes on when a vehicle detector determines there is a minimum of four to five vehicles in a turning lane. Otherwise, it is generally assumed one to three vehicles will be able to turn left on the solid green when adequate gaps appear in the oncoming traffic, and/or will clear the intersection during the amber/red light.

Roundabouts are circular intersections that improve road safety, manage increased traffic demand and help improve air quality by eliminating unnecessary stops and idling.

In a roundabout, the vehicle on the right must yield to the vehicle on the left.

Click here to learn more about how to use a roundabout.