Police Cracking Down On 'Blocking The Box'

HIRAM, GA — Local police have a warning for drivers: "Don't Block The Box."

Officers in Hiram and surrounding communities say they're cracking down on drivers who remain in intersections or crosswalks after a traffic light has changed to red. In other words, if there's no room for you to make it all the way through an intersection, don't pull forward.

In a social media post, Hiram Police said the practice contributes to traffic jams and causes traffic delays.

"Blocking the box prevents cross traffic from passing through when it’s their turn," the post says. "Blocking the box can also block pedestrians’ access to the crosswalk which is a real safety concern for those on foot."

The practice can also make it impossible for emergency vehicles to pass when they are responding to an incident, police said.

Paulding County motorists may notice that the Georgia Department of Transportation has painted a large X in major intersections along Ga. 6/U.S. 278 as part of the campaign.

Image courtesy Hiram Police Department