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Not all city intersections get stop signs In some new North Medford and Central Point subdivisions, there are intersections with no stop signs in either direction. If a fatal accident occurs here, would the city be liable for damages for neglecting to install a stop sign? -- Ed S., Central Point The city is free of fault, Ed. This is because there's already a rule that applies to such intersections. "The basic rule per state of Oregon law is at an uncontrolled intersection a driver yields to traffic approaching from his or her right," says Ralph Browning, Medford traffic engineering technician. "You can't assume there's a stop sign in the other direction." Yup, just like they said in driver's ed. What a lot of people don't realize or practice, he says, is that the person on the right ALWAYS has the right of way. This includes "T" intersections as well. Even if an approaching car is on a side street, it has the right of way if it is to the right of you. Residents who feel an intersection needs a sign can put in a request to the city's public works department. The city will investigate different aspects of the intersection, including traffic volume, hazards (overgrown hedges, for example) and whether there is a history of accidents. Then it determines whether a yield sign, stop sign or no sign is needed. Browning points out even though stop signs are safe in theory, they are the most inefficient form of traffic control and block flow. That's why they're not in every intersection. Medford residents who would like the city to investigate intersections can get a request form from the Public Works Department by calling 774-2100. Central Point residents should call 664-7602. ("Since You Asked'' is a daily feature in the Mail Tribune that answers questions from readers on virtually any topic of general interest. To submit a question, e-mail us at [email protected] Please include your name, address and phone number for verification. If you have specific questions about our Web site or other questions about the Mail Tribune, please send them to [email protected] ) Today's Edition : News | Sports | Business | Weather | Tempo | Classifieds Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 2000, Medford, Oregon USA