Manitoba Public Insurance and the RCMP are asking drivers to be careful around intersections following the release of some startling statistics.

RCMP said 22 per cent of all fatal accidents in rural Manitoba happen at intersections, meaning about 16 people die each year at intersections.

And intersections are particularly dangerous for pedestrians.

MPI said nearly 55 per cent of all vehicle-pedestrian collisions happen at intersections.

Between 2007 and 2011 nearly 1,900 pedestrians were hit by cars at intersections; 78 of those hit died as a result.

MPI and the RCMP are now underscoring the need for Manitobans to pay close attention when they’re approaching and driving through intersections.

RCMP said drivers need to stay alert, look both ways even if they have the right of way, come to complete stops, use signals, watch for pedestrians, maintain a safe distance between other vehicles and do not speed up at amber lights.

RCMP reminded drivers failing to stop at a sign or red light will result in a ticket of more than $200.

MPI recommends pedestrians must cross as quickly as possible regardless of signals and do a triple-check at the curb.

Officials recommend pedestrians look left, right and left again before stepping onto the street, even when they have a green light.

They also reminded pedestrians to cross at intersections whenever possible, preferably those controlled with lights or signs.

Five worst Winnipeg intersections for vehicle-pedestrian collisions

Intersection	Collisions
Portage Avenue and Cavalier Drive	9
Henderson Highway and McLeod Avenue	8
McPhillips Street and Jefferson Avenue	8
Isabel Street and William Avenue	7
Osborne Street and River Avenue	7

(source: MPI collision date from 2007-2011)