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Driving safely on the road is not just a matter for the driver alone but also for the pedestrians. Many Nigerian drivers lack the empathy or patience to consider individuals using the road as well. Pedestrians are as much considered a user of the road as a driver that’s why it’s important for a driver to know the right way to maneuver on the road.
Safety Points
- Slow down on roads where there are likely to be a lot of pedestrians, especially near schools, shopping centres and hotels— there are likely to be pedestrians who have been drinking.
- Be aware that pedestrians are hard to see at night and in poor weather.
- Don’t assume that a pedestrian has seen you and will wait for you to go past.
- Be mindful that vulnerable pedestrians may need extra time to cross – children can be difficult to see and may act unpredictably.
Shared Zone
A shared zone can be regarded as a road or network of roads where pedestrians and other vehicles moving slowly can share the road safely. When driving in a shared zone, give way to all pedestrians and keep to the 10km/h speed limit. Horn occasionally to alert pedestrians of your presence.
No Stopping Zones
No stopping signs are placed next to pedestrian crossings, where pedestrians can have a clear view of approaching vehicles and drivers can see pedestrians who are about to cross the road. It is illegal and dangerous to stop in these areas.
Zebra Crossing
Zebra crossing is an area of road painted with broad white stripes, where vehicles must stop if pedestrians wish to cross. As the use indicates, a driver must slow down at this spot. Look carefully to know if anyone is attempting to cross and stop if necessary. Never be in too much a hurry when you are approaching a zebra crossing– the consequences could be catastrophic.
40Km/hr High Pedestrian Activity Areas
The 40 km/h high pedestrian activity areas (HPAA) are sections of road where there is heavy interaction between vehicles and pedestrians. They may be near shopping strips, railway stations, bus interchanges, popular beaches and services such as medical centres. The maximum speed limit is 40km/hr at all times. Associated traffic calming measures help alert drivers to the lower speed limit and the presence of pedestrians moving about or near the road.
Knowing more about to handle pedestrians is very important not just for their safety but for yours. Hope this comes useful. Drive Safe!
