At one point or another, we all find ourselves as pedestrians, whether we’re walking to work, crossing the street to get to the store, or simply enjoying a stroll around the neighborhood. Pedestrian safety is a critical concern that affects everyone on the streets. Unfortunately, despite ongoing efforts to raise awareness and improve road conditions, pedestrian accidents and fatalities remain unacceptably high, particularly in densely populated urban areas like Metro Manila. Shockingly, in 2013 alone, over 5,800 pedestrians were involved in accidents along the streets of Metro Manila, with a quarter of those affected being students, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures.
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To address these alarming statistics, it is important for everyone to be aware and to understand and follow essential safety tips to keep pedestrians safe. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, simple pedestrian safety practices and habits can make a tangible difference in creating safer streets and reducing pedestrian accidents in urban communities. In this guide, we listed all the safety precautions and tips for pedestrians who value their lives well enough to stay safe on the roads.
What is Pedestrian Safety?
Pedestrian safety encompasses a range of practices and measures aimed at protecting individuals who are walking or using human-powered modes of transportation. It involves creating environments and infrastructure that prioritize the safety of pedestrians, ensuring they can navigate streets and roadways without unnecessary risks or hazards. This includes promoting pedestrian-friendly designs such as sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian bridges, and traffic signals that prioritize the movement and safety of those on foot.
Additionally, pedestrian safety involves educating the public about safe walking behaviors and the importance of mutual respect between pedestrians and drivers. This education includes teaching pedestrians to obey traffic laws, use designated crossings, stay visible to drivers, and remain vigilant of their surroundings. Furthermore, pedestrian safety extends to advocating for policies and regulations that prioritize pedestrian needs in urban planning and transportation initiatives, ultimately fostering a culture of safety and respect for pedestrians in communities.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
In bustling cities like Metro Manila, pedestrian safety is a critical concern. With high rates of pedestrian accidents, it’s essential for everyone to be aware of safety precautions while walking. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, following these simple tips can significantly reduce the risk of pedestrian-related incidents.
Know the Rules
- Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and signals.
- Obey traffic signs and signals, including pedestrian crossings and walk signals.
Use Sidewalks and Crosswalks
- Always walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
- If there are no sidewalks, walk facing oncoming traffic and as far away from vehicles as possible.
- Cross streets only at designated crosswalks or intersections.
Stay Alert
- Be vigilant and watch for vehicles, even when crossing at designated areas.
- Look in all directions, especially for turning vehicles.
- Avoid distractions like phones or headphones that can impair your awareness.
Be Visible
- Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially when walking at night.
- Carry a flashlight or use reflective accessories to make yourself more visible to drivers.
Walk Defensively
- Never assume that drivers can see you or will yield the right of way.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
- Walking impaired significantly increases your risk of accidents.
- Stay sober and alert while walking near traffic.
Plan Your Route
- Choose well-lit paths and busy streets for safer walking.
- Avoid secluded or poorly lit areas, especially at night.
Importance
Pedestrians are vulnerable road users, especially in busy urban environments where they must interact with various types of traffic. Having said that, learning and following safety guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, ensuring that pedestrians not only safeguards individual well-being but also contributes to overall road safety.
Here’s a list of potential benefits from simply learning about the safety tips for pedestrians:
- Prevention and reduction of risk of pedestrian accidents, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
- Enhances personal safety while walking or crossing streets.
- Raises awareness and consciousness about potential dangers
- Promotes cautious behavior among pedestrians.
- Ensures legal compliance with traffic laws and regulations, avoiding potential fines or penalties.
- Contributes to creating safer and more pedestrian-friendly communities.
- Sets a positive example for others, especially children and new pedestrians.
- Instills confidence in pedestrians to navigate their surroundings securely.
- Reduce stress associated with walking in busy or congested areas.
- Promotes walking as a healthy and accessible form of transportation, effectively reducing reliance on motor vehicles.
Philippine Laws Supporting Pedestrian Safety
The Philippine government recognizes the importance of pedestrian safety and has implemented or proposed the following legislative measures to protect pedestrians. These bills aim to improve pedestrian rights, ensure proper sidewalk infrastructure, and enhance road safety education.
Land Transportation and Traffic Code (Republic Act 4136)
RA 4136 is an existing law covering various aspects of road safety, including regulations related to pedestrian rights and traffic control.
Pedestrian Safety Act (Senate Bill 350)
Pedestrian Safety Act, otherwise known as Senate Bill 350, is a law proposed to amend the existing provisions of RA 4136 to enhance pedestrian safety by ensuring safe access for all pedestrians and improving crosswalk standards.
Pedestrian Protection Act of 2013 (House Bill 1752)
Pedestrian Protection Act of 2013, or House Bill 1752, emphasizes the rights of pedestrians on public roads and mandates the provision of sidewalks with proper signage by local government units. Filed in July 2013, it is still in pending status despite being with the Committee on Public Works and Highways since July 31, 2013.
Road Safety Education Act of 2011 (House Bill 4890)
The Road Safety Education Act of 2011 (House Bill 4890) proposes to inculcate road safety tips from an early age by having it become a part of every child’s early basic education, prompting the collaboration of the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to impose behavioral changes and discipline in road use. Filed in June 2011, the bill has been on pending status since it reached the Committee on Basic Education and Culture in July 2011.
Road Courtesy, Discipline, and Traffic Safety Education Act (House Bill 6098)
The Road Courtesy, Discipline, and Traffic Safety Education Act (House Bill 6098) is a bill that proposes including road safety education in the school curriculum of Grade 1 to 4th year high school students. The Department of Education (DepED), in partnership with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), is tasked to enact the rules to implement the act. It was filed in May 2012 and has been on pending status with the Committee on Basic Education and Culture since May 2012.
Video: Pedestrian Etiquette 101
To ensure pedestrian safety, here are some additional safety tips for road users from Creative Tires Philippines:
Summary
Pedestrian safety has always been a critical concern in the Philippines, thanks to the high risk of accidents caused by the congested streets and varying road conditions. But, it’s not like nothing is being done about it. In fact, several bills have been filed in an attempt to support pedestrian safety efforts. However, the laws alone are not enough, especially if we are to have safer environments for everyone, whether they are walking to school, work, or leisure. Remember: Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility that requires both pedestrians and drivers to practice the recommended safety tips and advocate for better road safety starting from themselves.