Stop Signs

A stop sign is one of our most valuable and effective control devices when used at the right places and under the right conditions. It is intended to help drivers and pedestrians determine who has the right-of-way at an intersection.

Uncontrolled Intersections

Uncontrolled intersections (no stop signs present) on residential roadways are common within neighborhoods and throughout the city. Many of the requests for stop signs have indicated speed control as the main reason for the request. Stop signs are not used as a speed control device. When stop signs are installed as "nuisances" or "speed breakers" there is a high incidence of intentional violation. In those locations where vehicles do stop, the speed reduction is effective only in the immediate vicinity of the stop sign and frequently speeds are actually higher between intersections. When an unreasonable restriction is imposed, the stop sign can create a false sense of security in a pedestrian and an attitude of contempt in a motorist. These two attitudes can and often do conflict with tragic results.

Drivers approaching an uncontrolled intersection shall follow State Statues defining the right-of-way as - When two vehicles enter an uncontrolled intersection from different highways at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.

For more information regarding traffic control issues, contact the Engineering Department.