The tragic incident in Malate, Manila, where a woman crossing a pedestrian lane was fatally hit by a speeding motorcycle, has reignited discussions about pedestrian safety and the responsibilities of motorists on Philippine roads. This heartbreaking accident underscores the urgent need to revisit and uphold traffic laws that ensure the safety of all road users.
Pedestrians First: A Universal Road Principle
The Land Transportation and Traffic Code of the Philippines (RA 4136) explicitly mandates drivers to yield to pedestrians at designated pedestrian crossings, especially in commercial and residential areas. However, the incident in Malate highlights a recurring issue—motorists often fail to prioritize pedestrians, even when traffic lights are in their favor.
According to Joe Ferreria, President of the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), it is a universal principle to give way to pedestrians. "Even if the light is green for vehicles, the pedestrian always takes priority once they step onto the road," Ferreria emphasized.
The Role of Driver and Pedestrian Responsibility
While pedestrians have the right of way at designated crossings, they also bear the responsibility of ensuring their safety when crossing roads, especially in areas without pedestrian lanes. Drivers, on the other hand, must always remain vigilant and be ready to yield, regardless of the traffic signal. This mutual respect and awareness are vital in reducing road accidents.
The AAP believes that the root of many traffic accidents lies in the mindset of road users. "Our traffic problems begin with people’s attitudes. Many think that others are to blame, without reflecting on their own behavior," Ferreria added.
The Need for Lower Speed Limits in Urban Areas
One of the critical factors contributing to accidents is overspeeding. Ferreria pointed out that urban areas demand lower speed limits to account for the unpredictable nature of city streets. "The ideal speed in cities should be 20 km/h. In urbanized areas, you must expect the unexpected—bicycles, tricycles, or even sudden pedestrian crossings," he explained.
The fatal accident in Malate highlights how excessive speed can lead to catastrophic consequences. The motorcyclist involved in the incident was also injured after being thrown off the bike due to the high speed.
A Call for Road Discipline
The recurring issue of pedestrian-related accidents raises a significant concern about road discipline in the Philippines. Ferreria emphasized that changing this culture requires a collective effort from both drivers and pedestrians. “Respecting traffic laws and practicing courtesy on the road are crucial steps toward reducing accidents,” he said.
The Road Ahead: Ensuring Pedestrian Safety
The safety of pedestrians is not just a matter of enforcing laws but also fostering a culture of mutual respect and responsibility. Drivers must exercise caution and prioritize safety over convenience, while pedestrians should remain aware of their surroundings and adhere to designated crossings.
This tragic incident in Malate serves as a stark reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility. With stricter enforcement of traffic laws and a shift in road users’ attitudes, we can create a safer environment for everyone.
Let’s work together to prevent more lives from being lost on our roads—because every pedestrian deserves to cross safely.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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