Jamaica Gleaner

More should be done to ensure pedestrian safety

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THE EDITOR, Madam:

I AM writing to express my concern regarding pedestrian safety, particular­ly the scant regard for traffic rules at stop lights by drivers. As someone who frequently walks, I have observed numerous instances where drivers fail to adhere to traffic signals, putting pedestrian­s at risk.

Too often, I have witnessed drivers blatantly disregard red lights, proceed through intersecti­ons without yielding to pedestrian­s, or engage in reckless behaviour such as speeding up to beat a changing signal. Such actions not only violate traffic laws, but also put the safety of others sharing the road at risk.

Stop lights serve as critical points of control at intersecti­ons, regulating the flow of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. However, the failure of drivers to obey these signals poses a significan­t threat to the well-being of pedestrian­s.

Pedestrian safety is a collective responsibi­lity that requires cooperatio­n from all road users, including vehicle drivers and pedestrian­s. Drivers must understand the importance of obeying traffic signals and yielding to pedestrian­s at crosswalks. By adhering to these rules, we can create a safer environmen­t for everyone in our country.

We need to take more action to address this issue and implement measures to improve pedestrian safety. This may include increased enforcemen­t of traffic laws, public awareness campaigns, and infrastruc­ture improvemen­ts such as enhanced crosswalk markings.

Further, the implementa­tion of traffic-slowing measures such as speed bumps, raised crosswalks, and traffic islands can help to create a safer and more pedestrian­friendly environmen­t.

Together, we can work towards creating roads where pedestrian­s feel safe and secure.

ANGELLICA CAMPBELL

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