IT is with concern I read of the proposals to be put in place to slow traffic in built-up residential areas.
It is all very well quoting figures showing pedestrians killed or injured in 2001 and the number of children involved. But if figures like this are to be used, then it is only fair to give a breakdown of how many of the incidents were the fault of the motorist and how many were the fault of the pedestrian, likewise those due to "joyriders" and those due to the everyday driver. The motorist, who, I agree, is not perfect, seems always to be the guilty party.
When it suits, the authorities are usually quick to mention what goes on in other countries. Well, let me state that failure to use a designated crossing point in continental countries can result in fines to the pedestrian -- when was a pedestrian last punished in this country? The figures quote 171 children were involved in accidents. Again no mention of breakdown, the children in this country no longer acquire road sense because they are usually driven everywhere -- what happened to the Tufty Club?
In Canada, a motorist may turn right even if traffic lights are showing red, but woe betide him if he is involved in an accident -- no arguing, he is at fault. Surely this should apply to pedestrians who cause accidents by failure to use designated crossing points?
It might be a good idea if traffic management people were to carry out a survey adjacent to designated crossing points and note the percentage who fail to use them when crossing the road.
It is not so long ago that the people of Westhoughton campaigned for a controlled crossing but were informed that a survey didn't justify a crossing. But where is the survey that justifies the proposed humps?
May I suggest that the tonnage of materials involved be used to fill in all our potholes and that the areas of the siting of the humps be painted black and white, and, should an accident involve persons using the crossing, the motorist is guilty, and, likewise, those pedestrians involved in an accident through failing to use the designated area should be prosecuted.
J M Lowe
New Hall Lane
Bolton
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