Tips for the beginner to advanced user.
Don’t take this too lightly as the sad fact is that people do get hit and killed on the Vietnamese roads, 6% of road accidents involve pedestrians and other factors.
The whole idea is to safely cross a busy road while the traffic is coming fast and furious from all directions. Vehicles are never going to stop for you at a pedestrian crossing, so don’t hold out hopes for that strategy.
- Look left and wait for the time when no buses, trucks or cars are coming (this might take several
minutes be patient).
2. Take a deep breath, pray, and before walking out check again in both directions, as drivers can whip
around you, going the wrong way.
- Check that the motorbike riders coming towards you are actually looking your way and not chatting
to the rider beside them, talking on a cell phone, or writing a text message.
- Walk out, and with every step ensure each driver has seen you before you assume that they will go
around you. Hold hands with your mother even if you haven’t done it since you were 8.
- Stop if you have to, but never step backwards.
- Keep walking slowly and smoothly. All drivers should go around you, and to any person that
approaches you tooting their horn – show the utmost respect.
- Once you’re across, breathe again! Another successful mission accomplished. Yes, you get to live for another day.
In general . . .
- Pedestrian crossings mean absolutely nothing.
- Never run as no one can predict your next move and will play dodgems with you.
- When using ‘Crossing Signs’ at traffic lights still check both ways and watch out for red light runners.
- If you can walk across in a group, it’s got to be more intimidating to the drivers.
- If all else fails, cross with a local and hope they are not on a suicide mission.
