Crossing the Street Shouldn't Be Deadly (but it is)
Not Just Bikes・28 minutes read
The video discusses how North American road designs prioritize car speed over pedestrian safety, contrasting with the Netherlands' pedestrian-friendly infrastructure focusing on safety and accessibility. It highlights the history of road safety, the term "jaywalking" created by the automobile industry to benefit cars, and the shift towards sustainable traffic safety in the Netherlands in the 1990s.
Insights
- North American intersections prioritize car traffic flow over pedestrian safety, neglecting the needs of walkers and creating hazardous conditions for crossing streets.
- The term "jaywalking" was coined by the automobile industry to blame pedestrians for accidents, highlighting a historical shift towards prioritizing car speed and convenience over pedestrian safety in urban design.
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Recent questions
How does street design differ between the Netherlands and North America?
In the Netherlands, street design prioritizes pedestrian safety with features like pedestrian scramble intersections, leading pedestrian indicators, and radar detectors adjusting walk signal times based on pedestrian presence. On the other hand, North American intersections primarily focus on car traffic flow, neglecting pedestrian safety. The Netherlands also boasts continuous sidewalks, contrasting with North American designs that often have lengthy crossing distances and prioritize cars over pedestrians.
What is the history behind the term "jaywalking"?
The term "jaywalking" was coined by the automobile industry to shift blame onto pedestrians and clear the way for cars to drive faster. It was not about safety but rather about promoting the speed and efficiency of cars on the road. This term was used to discourage pedestrians from crossing streets outside designated areas and to prioritize car traffic flow over pedestrian safety.
How did public perception of cars change in the early 20th century?
In the early 20th century, the public's perception of cars shifted from fascination to concern about safety and speed. By the 1920s, there was a growing dislike for cars, leading to calls for speed Governors to be installed in cities. Cities imposed high fines and penalties for dangerous driving, resulting in a 12% drop in car sales in 1924. This change in perception reflected a growing awareness of the dangers posed by cars and the need for safer road conditions.
What measures have been taken in San Francisco to enhance public transit and cycling?
In San Francisco, measures have been taken to enhance public transit and cycling by banning private vehicles from Market Street in 2020. This decision was made to prioritize the safety and accessibility of pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users. By restricting private vehicles, the city aims to create a more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly environment that encourages alternative modes of transportation.
How did the Netherlands shift towards sustainable traffic safety in the 1990s?
In the 1990s, the Netherlands made a significant shift towards sustainable traffic safety by focusing on infrastructure improvements. This included implementing features like pedestrian scramble intersections, leading pedestrian indicators, radar detectors at crossings, and continuous sidewalks to enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility. By prioritizing sustainable traffic safety measures, the Netherlands aimed to create a safer and more pedestrian-friendly environment for its residents.
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