Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department Spring and summer mean people will be doing work around their homes. This can often involve landscaping, driveway work, or general construction. This activity will quite often include several large vehicles parked on the road near the project. This can cause an obstruction for vehicles traveling in the area. I was asked to provide reminders for drivers on what to do when they encounter these situations. These situations can be dangerous if everyone involved fails to exercise the proper caution.Certainly, the people in charge of these work vehicles must insure they are legally parked and as far out of the travel lanes as possible. It certainly helps to provide additional warnings, such as cones or signs. Any advanced notice for drivers is of great assistance. When driver’s approach parked vehicles or other lane obstructions (tree branch, wires, etc.), the vehicle in that lane has the obligation to yield to other traffic prior to maneuvering around it. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 89 section 1 through 4B contains several definitions obligating vehicles to keep right and operate within a single lane. Vehicles can drive around obstructions if it is safe to do so. Any movement around objects is like passing other vehicles. The obligation to yield to other travelers is present in the vehicle making the move. Violations can include civil fines of at least $100. Any time vehicles are moving contrary to the allowed purpose, accidents can occur. Whenever you make a movement into another lane, always be certain it is safe to do so. Allow other vehicles to pass by if necessary. |
In addition to other traffic, it is also important to watch for pedestrians or others at or around the parked vehicle. Often there can be people in this area working or addressing some car troubles. The few moments of waiting can mean the difference between an accident and / or arriving at your destination safely.
Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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