THE Traffic Police's focus on the elderly pedestrians is overdue ("Fewer fatal traffic accidents in first quarter"; Tuesday).
As a senior citizen, I have witnessed numerous incidents where motorists failed to give way to pedestrians at zebra crossings, especially those that are located after a bend.
I also have had a few narrow escapes when motorists refused to stop at zebra crossings. Ironically, some were government vehicles and law enforcers; by law, they must stop for pedestrians at these crossings.
Such incidents are accidents waiting to happen, as the elderly have slow reflexes, and most of the zebra crossings do not have flashing beacons to alert motorists that they are approaching a pedestrian crossing.
The problem lies with motorists tending to speed past the crossings without considering the pedestrians standing ready to cross.
Those who do not show caution, courtesy, consideration and common sense should not be driving on our roads.
The Traffic Police should explore the possibility of installing sensors or cameras at zebra crossings to nab those who refuse to stop.
They should also install beacons at junctions that automatically activate - as a warning to drivers - should pedestrians be crossing them.
Francis Cheng
