Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department I was recently asked a question regarding stop lines painted on roads. Some dead end side streets have stop lines at the intersection without a stop sign present. The question was, can a driver be written a citation in the event they do not stop at these locations? Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 89 Section 9, covers stop sign regulations. The obligation of a driver is to stop at an intersection where there is a posted stop sign or red signal light. The white line is present to indicate the location where a vehicle should stop. The law states a vehicle “shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or, if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering it.” The penalty for a stop sign violation is a thirty-five dollar civil infraction. Stop lines have been painted in many locations throughout town. Certain streets, that do not have signs already, may be designated for one in the future. In those places, these lines can be considered “advisory” and not necessarily the subject of a fine. |
These can serve as a warning for drivers, particularly those who may be unfamiliar with the area. Should a crash occur, the circumstances are considered on a case by case basis. It is always advisable to proceed with caution at any intersection, even those with signs or traffic lights, to avoid accidents and prevent injuries.
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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