Race on to identify danger zones before new road rules kick in | Manawatu-Wanganui News | Local News in Manawatu-Wanganui

Wanganui District Council is identifying intersections that could cause problems after the new road rules come into effect in March.

The Government has asked councils to identify their most difficult intersections after the rule-change, which gives drivers turning left the right of way, on March 25.

"One site already identified as likely to be affected is the intersection of Taupo Quay and St Hill Street," said councillor Ray Stevens, who chairs the council's infrastructure and property committee.

Once the council had identified the problem areas, signs would be put up warning motorists of the changes.

He said the only likely negative effects would be intersection congestion in places where none existed before, and potential crashes arising from frustration.

"But we also need to look at traffic lights with arrows, and see whether any of those intersections will be affected," Mr Stevens said.

There are two changes coming into effect.

From 5am on 25 March, 2012, all traffic turning right will give way to a vehicle coming from the opposite direction and turning left. This applies at cross roads, T-intersections and driveways where both vehicles are facing each other with no signs or signals, or the same signs or signals.

At an uncontrolled T-intersection, all traffic from a terminating road will have to give way to all traffic on a continuing road.

This will bring it into line with T-intersections where there are Stop or Give Way signs on the terminating road.

Authorities have estimated the rule change will prevent about one death, 13 serious injuries and 84 minor injuries every year on average.