Motorists are being urged to drive cautiously at a time when tall crops like sunflowers and corn may be obstructing views, particularly on rural roads where most intersections are uncontrolled, according to RCMP Sergeant Paul Manaigre.

He says if you can't see other on-coming vehicles, odds are pretty good those drivers can't see you either, adding drivers need to slow down as they approach the intersections.

"If I can't see to my left and I can't see to my right, there may be a car coming and you may have to come to a stop. To me, it's worth taking that extra time to make sure it's safe," he said.

According to Sgt. Manaigre, basic rules to follow at all intersections whether they are rural or urban, controlled or uncontrolled, is to slow down and yield to the vehicle on the right.

While the posted speed limit on most rural roads 90 km/h, the Sergeant encourages motorists to drive to their abilities and road conditions, adding sometimes that means driving below the speed limit.

For example, Sgt. Manaigre noted driving on gravel roads is a new experience for most people who didn't grow up in the country and says it can be like driving on marbles, adding it requires knowledge of how your vehicle reacts to those conditions along with practice and experience. In addition, he said the dark of night, recent rainfall and/or washboard sections also affect a vehicle's ability to maintain traction on the road.

Sgt. Manaigre added drivers also need to avoid high-risk behaviours like speeding and using their cell phones when behind the wheel. "You can't be distracted. You need to be paying attention."

"In the summertime especially is when we see complacency in drivers," he said. "It's nice out, the sun is out, people just aren't paying attention and they assume. They've been driving down a certain road for thirty years and never come across another car at an intersection but today happens to be that day and a collision occurs."

Sgt. Manaigre noted these basic rules not only apply to rural settings but on urban roads as well.