This often reduces the need to install more restrictive intersection controls. Overuse of stop signs reduces their effectiveness and, if installed where not justified, drivers, who tend to speed up between stop sign controlled intersections rather than slow down, largely ignore them. Stop signs also increase fuel consumption as well as air and noise pollution.
Some of the criteria the City considers for the installation of four-way stop signs at intersections are as follows:
1. Traffic volume on both minor and major streets.
2. Number of elementary school children crossing the streets.
3. Accidents
Crosswalks
Crosswalks are either "marked" or "unmarked". The California Vehicle Code defines a "crosswalk" as the portion of a roadway at an intersection, which is an extension of the curb and property lines of the intersecting street or is any other portion of a roadway that is marked as a pedestrian crossing location by painted lines. A "marked crosswalk" is any crosswalk that is delineated by white or yellow painted markings placed on the pavement. All other crosswalk locations are therefore "unmarked".
At any crosswalk (marked or unmarked), drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Crosswalks are marked mainly to encourage pedestrians to use a particular crossing. Studies conducted on the relative safety of crosswalks support minimal installation of marked crosswalks. A marked crosswalk can give pedestrians a false sense of security. At all crosswalks, both unmarked and marked, it is the pedestrians' responsibility to be cautious and alert while crossing.
Crosswalks are marked at intersections where it is necessary to direct pedestrians to cross at the safest location. The City does not paint crosswalks at mid-block locations.
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