When a pedestrian signal begins to flash, pedestrians should not start crossing the street or begin running, under newly clarified traffic safety rules announced today by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications.
The amendment to the Regulations on Establishing Traffic Signs and Indicating Lines (道路交通標誌標線號誌設置規則) aims to clarify the meaning of flashing pedestrian signals, the ministry said.
In January, the ministry said it was considering eliminating existing penalties for crossing on a flashing signal, after controversy about fines being issued for an unclear regulation.
Photo: CNA
However, in a news release today, the ministry said that pedestrians should not start crossing the street when the "little green man" signal begins to flash or count down.
Rather than urging pedestrians to run across the road, the flashing light is a reminder for those who have not yet stepped onto the crosswalk to avoid entering and wait for the next green light cycle, it said.
The amendment specifically takes into consideration schoolchildren, elderly people and those with slower mobility, it added.
Photo: Taipei Times
The countdown timer is designed to help pedestrians judge whether they have enough time to cross safely, the ministry said.
If pedestrians find the remaining seconds insufficient or the green light has already started flashing, they should assess their own pace and prioritize waiting by the roadside for the next light cycle, it said.
Local authorities would also be encouraged to assess times at intersections to ensure all groups may cross the road safely, the ministry added.
According to Article 207 of the regulations, a steady green pedestrian signal indicates that pedestrians may cross, while a flashing green light means the remaining time is short.
Those already on the crosswalk must pass quickly or stop at a traffic island, while those who have not yet stepped off the curb are prohibited from entering, the article says.
Contravening the regulations can result in a fine of NT$500 under Article 78 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act (道路交通管理處罰條例).
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