CITOM to Drivers: Respect Pedestrian Lanes

The Cebu City traffic department on Saturday reminded all vehicle drivers that pedestrian crossings are worth to be respected all times.

City Traffic Operations and Management (CITOM) Chief Joy Tumulak issued the reminder after receiving reports that some drivers are not respecting pedestrians crossing the pedestrian lanes.

He said crossing lines are emphasized well with white-colored paint which means a way for pedestrians to freely crossed to the other road side from the other end.

Tumulak explained that both the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) or CITOM personnel were tasked to designate pedestrian crossings almost every corner or in an area where bulk of people are usually made to cross. He admitted that majority of vehicle drivers here in Cebu City were not briefed regarding the significance of the pedestrian crossing.

“They are supposed to know it prior to the issuance of their driver’s license if policies regarding the proper conduct of seminars and training before its approval are just complied”, Tumulak added.

Tumulak cited his observations in Hong Kong where drivers are very careful in areas where pedestrian lines located.

“Drivers in Hong Kong have to totally stop even if ever there a single pedestrian found crossing the pedestrian lane, or if not, they have to reduce speed before reaching the area”, Tumulak said.

Tumulak categorized vehicle drivers as those driving bus, car, and motorcycle who ought to learn to respect pedestrian lanes.

He said this is high time now for all drivers to learn the importance of pedestrian lanes which are designed by the traffic department to avoid road accidents. He ought to receive feed backs from the public regarding some lapses committed by drivers who are intentionally neglecting their responsibilities, Tumulak added.

With feedbacks like this, Tumulak may compel to propose it to the city council to pass an ordinance directing and compelling all drivers to totally stop whenever pedestrian crosses the intended lane or to reduce speed even without pedestrians.

The CITOM Chief said that for feedbacks, he can be contacted with these numbers, 09328681971 or 3825784.