TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Intersections are notorious for traffic accidents. From January to August this year, nearly 900 people died in intersection-related accidents in Taiwan, according to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications.
Addressing this, the government has introduced pedestrian refuge islands. But, these safety measures have ironically led to a new issue: cars frequently crash onto these blocks of concrete.
Take an intersection in Yunlin County, for instance. There were three collisions on the pedestrian refuge island in just October, underscoring the severity of this problem.
A pedestrian refuge island is an extension of a divisional island meant to shield pedestrians.
At busy intersections, pedestrians unable to cross during the green light can pause safely on these islands. They also help pedestrians stick to crosswalks.
For drivers, these islands are more than just physical barriers. They remind drivers to keep a safe distance from crosswalks and discourage premature turns. Turning correctly gives drivers better road visibility, which is crucial as many accidents happen due to obstructed views from vehicle pillars.
The public reaction, however, is mixed.
Some drivers criticize the islands as too low and hazardous, claiming they reduce road space and elevate accident risks. On the other hand, proponents emphasize the necessity of following traffic laws and respecting safety measures rather than prioritizing convenience.
Against this backdrop, the government's commitment to these structures should remain unwavering. The pedestrian refuge islands should become a key component of Taiwan's broader strategy and the ultimate goal to reduce traffic-related fatalities and injuries.
In this way, the islands are more than just a traffic management tool; they are one of the symbols of Taiwan's dedication to improving the well-being and safety of its citizens in public spaces.
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更新時間：2023/11/16 17:34