Cutting corners could get drivers ticketed in Gentry

GENTRY — Police began cracking down Monday on motorists using the shoulder to make turns at the intersection of Arkansas Highways 12 and 59.

“We will begin watching the intersection today,” said Gentry Police Chief Keith Smith on Monday morning. “And we will be writing tickets,” he added.

According to Smith, motorists traveling south on Highway 59 have been pulling to the right of thewhite lane marker - onto the shoulder - to get around other traffic at the stop light and make right turns.

Smith said this has caused accidents and nearmisses because those in the driving lane and preparing to make a right turn suddenly have another motorist coming around them on the right to make a turn.

Motorists can expect to see Gentry police cars at the intersection often, Smith said, and those violating the law can expect citations.