The Malta Automobile Club wishes to join the United Nations and the World Health Organization’s efforts, as well as those of the European Union, to promote the safety of pedestrians - this week and the rest of the year.

The Malta Automobile Club appeals to all road users to take extra care and to make this week – the Second UN Global Road Safety Week (6-12 May) - a safer week for all road users, particularly pedestrians.

The Club is inviting friends and drivers to draw its attention and report those areas where pedestrian crossings are not adequately provided with lights and traffic warning signs. This information will then be forwarded to the authorities concerned including Transport Malta and the appropriate Local Councils.

Pedestrian crossings without proper traffic warnings for drivers could become serious health hazards and dangerous traps for pedestrians, particularly during darkness.

A pedestrian crossing at the Strand in Sliema close to the Jesus of Nazareth Parish Church needs better warning signs. The traffic lights at other crossings in the same area are partly hidden by parked food kiosks.

Some pedestrian crossings are marked by the appropriate sign at the location of the crossing, but there are cases where no advance warning signs are present.  When pedestrian crossing signs are close to junctions, early warning signs become more useful.

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users, and young children are even more so. Drivers are requested to make every effort to protect those who can hardly protect themselves on the road.

It is recommended that pedestrians take better care of themselves and use pedestrian crossings – and if necessary walk a few metres more before they cross the street – when pedestrian crossings happen to be in the vicinity.

Alfred A. Farrugia

Malta Automobile Club