The latest serious collision at the intersection of Highway 12 and Provincial Road 210 has renewed concerns about safety at one of southeastern Manitoba’s most notorious crossings.
RM of Ste. Anne Deputy Reeve Randy Eros says the recent crash serves as another reminder of why planned improvements to the intersection are needed.
“I do know that they have budgeted for and are planning to spend a chunk of change this year,” Eros says, referring to provincial plans for the intersection. “They tell us they’ve started the process.”
While some residents have expressed frustration with the pace of the project, Eros says motorists must remain vigilant while improvements are still pending.
“As long as that intersection is open, people need to be cautious.”
Intersection angle creates visibility concerns
The deputy reeve notes that studies of collision history at the intersection have identified several contributing factors, including the fact that the crossing is not perfectly aligned at a right angle.
According to Eros, that design can create visibility challenges for drivers attempting to cross Highway 12.
“This idea of crossing the road and being hit by a southbound vehicle often indicates that you’ve lost people in the pillar of your vehicle,” he says.
Eros recommends a defensive driving technique known as “stop and rock,” where drivers stop completely and shift their body position forward and back to improve visibility around a vehicle’s blind spots.
Related Stories:
- Five people injured in serious collision at Highway 12 and PR 210
- Early morning crash at Highway 12 and PR 210 renews safety concerns
- Lagassé pushing for faster safety improvements at Highway 12 and PR 210 intersection
Alternative routes recommended
He also encourages motorists to consider alternative routes whenever possible, including using the Highway 12 overpass at PR 207 near Ste. Anne instead of crossing at PR 210.
“If there’s another option, and there is for many people, use the overpass,” Eros suggests.
He added that drivers travelling through the area should remain alert regardless of which direction they are travelling, noting that all motorists share responsibility for safety at dangerous intersections.
The intersection sits near the boundary between the RM and Town of Ste. Anne and remains a concern for both municipalities and emergency responders.
]]>
