Right Turns Prohibited at Two Tahoe Intersections
A pilot program kicked off recently in South Lake Tahoe, California, that is aimed at alleviating traffic in residential neighborhoods. On the weekend following the implementation of the program, multiple vehicles were pulled over based on violation of the new rules regarding turn restrictions. Most of those who were stopped were visitors to the area.
The new rules prohibit right-hand turns at Sawmill Road and North Upper Truckee Road for vehicles traveling westbound on U.S. Highway 50. Navigation mapping systems were supposed to update and not allow traffic to route through the affected neighborhoods, but that did not go as smoothly as anticipated.
Twelve Vehicles Stopped and Warned
On Sunday, May 16, 2021, twelve vehicles were stopped and given warnings about the new regulations. Of the twelve, nine of the drivers were from out-of-town. The majority of the vehicles (11) were pulled over at North Upper Truckee. The warnings were given in lieu of citations given the fact that so many of the GPS apps had not updated to show the recent change, according to an officer from the California Highway Patrol, South Lake Tahoe office.
Street Signs Gave Advanced Notice
During the first week of May, several road signs were placed in the target areas alerting motorists of the pilot program. The restrictions are only in effect from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays as well as holidays that land on a Monday. The program will run through October 31, 2021. If officers determine that the pilot program is successful, the complete program, which will feature 21 turn restrictions, could be activated during the winter months.
Public Feedback Mixed
The local CHP office has indicated that there has been some pushback from local residents – they have received a number of complaints. However, most residents have voiced support for the project and its intended goal of easing neighborhood traffic.
Neighborhood Traffic Abatement
Turn restrictions are one way to reduce traffic volumes in a residential neighborhood. There are other methods, as well, most of which are designed to make residential streets less attractive to through traffic. Some of the other ways in which this can be done include:
- Full or partial street closures
- Full or partial diverters
- Abutting one-way streets
If a neighborhood has an issue with vehicles speeding on their streets, there are several changes that can be made to address that issue, including:
- Speed tables, speed humps, or raised intersections
- Traffic circles or roundabouts
- Street narrowing via landscaping or medians
All of the above have been found to be more effective at addressing speed problems than signs or markings on the pavement.
Techniques to Calm Traffic
When a residential area has been identified as having a problem with through traffic, there are a number of potential remedies. The problem must first be defined and documented, and an appeal must be made to the local government, after which an appropriate solution can be identified with the help of a professional traffic engineer.
Watch the YouTube video. Below is a clip of dashcam footage documenting a drive east on High 50 through South Lake Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe Personal Injury Lawyer
Thanks for visiting our legal blog. My name is Ed Smith, and I am a personal injury lawyer serving the South Lake Tahoe region. Such a popular destination is bound to have high traffic volumes, and with so many of those motorists being from out of town, they may not be familiar with the roads in the area. Inexperience can lead to traffic accidents. If you or someone you love has suffered injuries due to another driver’s inexperience, recklessness, or general negligence, our skilled injury lawyers can help. For nearly four decades, we have been advocating for Northern Californians. To receive our free and friendly legal advice, reach out to us at (530) 392-9400 or toll-free from other area codes at (800) 404-5400.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/lake-tahoe-california-mountain-1591339/
mm llo [cs 677]