Well developed, nationally recognized guidelines help to indicate when multi-way stop signs become necessary. However if the guidelines listed below are met installation may be appropriate. Misconceptions regarding the effects of stop signs often lead individuals to request their installation. Some people believe multi-way stops will slow the speed of traffic or create such an inconvenience that traffic will use other routes. In addition, the speed reduction that is desired is effective only in the immediate vicinity of the stop sign and often speeds actually are higher between intersections.
Most drivers are responsible and prudent.
However, when unreasonable traffic restrictions are imposed, increased violations often occur. For example some drivers will make a partial or rolling stop rather than a complete stop. This often results in an increase of right-angle accidents, the very type of accident the stop signs are installed to prevent. In such cases, the stop signs can create a false sense of security in a pedestrian and an attitude of contempt in a motorist. These two attitudes will conflict with tragic results.