German Trade Office Taipei (AHK Taiwan)’s Post

This is so interesting having just returned to Australia from a cycle holiday in Taiwan. Transport worlds of stark contrast - one of which there is a clear sense of community and the other of which the car (the bigger the better) is unquestionably king. "Our streets used to be complex and diverse places that hosted a whole range of different functions. These “remaining spaces between buildings” functioned as largely ungoverned public spaces, as commons used for many different purposes: work, trade, play, socialising and transportation. But this changed around the 1930s, when our urban streets were facing the disruptive large-scale introduction of the motorized automobile, resulting in largescale disturbances and the violent death of many, most notably young children. At first, there was a societal consensus that there was no place for the car on our streets". Interesting how times have changed such that, today, there is implicit consensus that there is no place on our streets for 'people'. (Unless obscured within a metal frame which provides relative anonymity). "As the influential thinker Ivan Illich stated already in 1983: “Like any true commons, the street itself was the result of people living there and making that space livable". "A new street language centred around values such as control, efficiency and the freedom of the individual car driver. “Traffic engineering” translated these values into a number of key assumptions of how streets should function. First, streets should never be clogged, making optimal vehicular throughput and free flow undisputed goals and congestion the single most important problem. Second, humans are rational and isolated egoists who aim to minimize travel time at the expense of anything else making travel time savings the ultimate goal of policy makers." "The current framework of “increasing road safety” isn’t working. What is required instead is a shift to thinking about “reducing road danger” and bringing back elements of justice. At the least, that should make us more aware of the potentially negative unintended consequences of current safety interventions such as the relentless pushing of bicycle helmets, Hi-Viz clothing and disciplining of small children... "not about taking away privileges from car drivers, but about giving back privileges to so many others." How I yearn to return our streetscapes and this valuable public commodity for healthy, liveable communities, commerce and environment. How I would love to live in such a place. How do we keep chipping away at the policies, regulations, engineering, communications and culture to bring about the change that so many of us know is needed? How do we engage effectively with the motor industry? Marco Te Brömmelstroet #urbantransport #mobility #publicspace #cities #cycling #community #walking #publictransport #motonormativity https://lnkd.in/gXuv6BhX

This is a nice reminder that "streets" used to be alive, complex, multi-purpose commons where the only constraint was that you couldn't unduly inconvenience another user. Now our streets are more akin to rail roads. Everyone agrees that rail roads need to be segregated & access to them restricted because of the incredible danger that trains pose due to their speed, mass, & long stopping distance. Motor vehicles pose the same threat, so streets became their segregated space. Imagine if we had a rail line running along every single residence, shop, park, library, school, hotel, restaurant, business, playground, etc. Actually, that might be preferable to the current state. At least trains travel in discrete units bound to the tracks instead of a limitless flow where each participant is capable of departing the road at any time due to error or inattention.

Today is *Pedestrian Awareness Day* (Day 2 in Ireland’s Road Safety Week). Many think that ‘Vision Zero’ (i.e. zero road deaths by 2050 and cutting serious injuries and deaths in half by 2030) is an impossibility. But there are cities and towns out there that have already achieved this. Pontevedra, NW Spain (a city of c.83K population in a region with lots of rain & about the size of Waterford) is one of these. How do they do it? 1. The PEDESTRIAN has PRIORITY, and the streets of both the city centre and suburbs are designed to reflect this. ‘Pedestrian priority’ is not a concept we are pursuing much in urban Ireland, despite pedestrians having a position at the top of our transport user hierarchy in policy (DMURS). We CANNOT get to Vision Zero without a considerable focus on the pedestrian and their needs. 2. Despite it sounding somewhat contradictory, you can drive your car pretty much anywhere that is really ‘necessary’ in the City, but the maximum vehicle speed ranges between walking speed (6km/hr) to 30km/hr on busy roads. Managing SPEED and traffic VOLUMES are key to success here. 3. On streets outside of the main shopping, socialising and historic areas (which have the look and feel of pedestrianised streets), ZEBRA crossings are everywhere. Not any old zebras either 🦓 – but wide (c.5m), step-free zebras every 50m or so!  Yes - every 50 metres. 4. Where there are traffic lights, pedestrians have c.40% more CROSSING TIME than we have in Ireland. 40%! Could we do this too here in Ireland? Yes, we can! Pontevedra historically had high levels of road trauma too – not only have they completely reversed that, their city is full of LIFE,  vitality, and is regenerated. 

Another super feature of some Spanish towns which is often overlooked is the no left turn across traffic. (equivalent of no right turn in Ireland) You use the next roundabout to access that side of the road or there is a lay by that you use to your right and then cross traffic controlled by lights or traffic flow. Onus is on the driver to be considerate of others. Next time you are in a town try and observe how much obstruction to traffic is caused by drivers nosing out looking to turn right across two lanes of traffic. Or, blocking the through road when turning right into a sideroad.

STAY SAFE ON THE ROADS: AVOID NO ENTRY ZONES AND BE CAUTIOUS OF GOOGLE MAP GUIDANCE Today, I want to talk to you about a critical issue that affects us all: road safety. As we go about our daily lives, rushing to reach our destinations, we often overlook the importance of following traffic rules and guidelines. But the consequences of our actions can be devastating. Recently, we've witnessed a horrific accident where a vehicle fell from a half-constructed bridge, following Google Map guidance. This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of ignoring no entry zones and relying solely on GPS navigation. But this is not an isolated incident. Many of us have seen or experienced near-misses or accidents due to entering no entry zones under construction, only to find ourselves in a precarious situation. The lack of proper barricading and signage can lead to confusion, and before we know it, we're in harm's way. And then, there's the role of Google Maps. While this incredible technology has revolutionized the way we navigate, it's not infallible. Sometimes, it may guide us through routes that are under construction or closed, putting us at risk. So, what can we do to stay safe on the roads? >Firstly, always be aware of your surroundings. When approaching a construction zone, slow down and look out for signs and barricades. Don't rely solely on Google Maps; use your common sense and observe the road conditions. >Secondly, never enter a no entry zone, even if Google Maps suggests it. The consequences of ignoring these signs can be catastrophic. >Thirdly, report any missing barricading or inadequate signage to the authorities. Your vigilance can help prevent accidents and save lives. >Lastly, let's all take a moment to reflect on our driving habits. Are we following traffic rules? Are we driving defensively? Are we putting ourselves and others at risk? The recent accident is a wake-up call for all of us. Let's take responsibility for our actions and make a conscious effort to stay safe on the roads. Remember: a few minutes of caution can save a lifetime of regret. Share this post with your loved ones and let's spread awareness about the importance of road safety. Stay safe, and stay vigilant! #RoadSafety #GPSAwareness #DriveSafe #NightDriving #StayVigilant #SafeDriving #RoadAccidents #CommunitySafety #TechAndSafety #SafetyFirst #PreventAccidents #PublicSafety #SafeJourney #BeAlert #RoadSafetyTips

🌄 Rural Road Safety Month: Essential Driving Etiquette on Rural Roads🌄 As we continue to observe Rural Road Safety Month, today we’re focusing on crucial aspects of driving etiquette that are especially important on the less-traveled roads of Western Australia. Navigating rural roads safely means not only following the rules but also respecting other road users. Here are some key tips to help you drive safely and courteously: 🟢 Be Courteous with Your High Beams: When encountering oncoming traffic at night, remember to dip your high beams. High beams can temporarily blind other drivers, increasing the risk of accidents on narrow, dark rural roads. 🟢 Keep Left Unless Overtaking: It’s a simple rule but vital for keeping traffic flowing smoothly and safely. Staying left unless overtaking prevents congestion and reduces risks associated with high-speed lane changes. 🟢 Think Again - Do You Really Need to Overtake? Overtaking on rural roads can be risky due to unexpected bends, limited visibility, and oncoming traffic. Always assess if overtaking is necessary. Sometimes, it’s safer to remain behind a slower vehicle than to risk a dangerous overtake. Why These Tips Matter: Rural roads present unique challenges, including fewer streetlights, narrower lanes, and potentially more hazards like wildlife. By practicing good driving etiquette, you contribute to safer journeys for everyone on the road. 👀 Stay Tuned: Throughout Rural Road Safety Month, we’ll share more tips and insights to enhance your driving awareness and safety. Follow our posts to stay informed and prepared! 📞 Engage with Us: Have a question or want to share your own rural road safety tip? Comment below or send us a message. Let’s all do our part to make rural driving safer for every traveler. 
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As we enter Road Safety Week from May 5th to 12th we're reminded of the critical importance of safe driving practices, especially for our regional teams who cover vast distances between our facilities, offices, and sites! Our teams travel thousands of kilometres, and it's paramount to prioritize safety on the road. Let's take a moment to reinforce some key reminders: - Never drive when you're tired. - Respect road rules and any changes in your surroundings. - Always arrange for a designated driver if you plan on visiting the pub. - Buckle up every time; seatbelts save lives. - Keep distractions, especially your phone, out of reach. - Remember, speeding won't get you there faster; your safety is paramount. We encourage everyone to delve deeper into road safety by visiting the link below. Let's all do our part to ensure safe travels on Aussie roads. Stay safe out there! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gQENCsg #WeAreProterraGroup #RoadSafetyWeek #StaySafe #SupportingLocalCommunities #StayAlert

Mexico has declared safe mobility as a human right. With this new mandate, leaders must redesign streets to prioritize public transport modes and the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. This work can help multiple areas, including #airquality. Read more from WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities.

This week is National Work Zone Awareness Week! Large trucks are over represented in #workzone crashes, making up nearly one-third of fatal work zone crashes. With work zones presenting challenges on our roads -- like narrowed lanes, sudden stops, shifting traffic patterns, and uneven road surfaces -- it’s important we all understand how to navigate safely through these areas. Be aware of passenger vehicle drivers around you, who may not be aware of commercial vehicle driving challenges, including large blind spots and longer stopping distances. When approaching lane closures, move into the open lane as soon as possible – pay close attention to vehicles around you that could be in your blind spot. It’s critical that all road users approach work zones with caution and do their part to keep the road safe for everyone! #NWZAW #trucking #NationalWorkZoneAwarenessWeek #safety #safetyontheroad #roadwaysafety #safetyfirst #transportation

🚸 Olomouc, Velkomoravska/Schweitzerova Crossroad for Pedestrians | Nov. 2024 Statutární město Olomouc Navigating a seven-lane crossroad, especially with children, poses major challenges for safety and peace of mind. A recent video reveals critical issues with this intersection’s renewal that were not addressed with the updates. Here’s why this crossroad is a concern: Key Challenges and Considerations 🌍 🚶♂️ Crossing Distance: Seven lanes create a significant crossing width, especially tough for young children who need extra time and guidance. Elevated crosswalks would allow safe, uninterrupted passage over vehicles. ⚠️ Safety Risks: With no physical safety upgrades, pedestrians are left vulnerable to high-speed traffic. Kids, who often struggle to judge vehicle speed, are especially at risk if they need to wait in the intersection for another light cycle. 🔄 Traffic Flow Confusion: Multiple traffic directions make it challenging for pedestrians, particularly children, to navigate. They may feel overwhelmed by the vehicle movements, complicating their ability to recognize safe crossing times. 🏗️ Infrastructure Expectations: The council’s renewal investment focused on lights and repaving but fell short in protecting pedestrians. Elevated crosswalks could provide a proactive solution, prioritizing safe pedestrian passage. 👀 Visual and Structural Cues for Safety: Elevated walkways, ramps, and pedestrian-friendly signage would better signal shared space for vehicles and pedestrians, encouraging safer, family-friendly interactions. Timing Concerns ⏳ ⏰ Insufficient Green Time: With only 8 seconds of green light, many pedestrians, especially children, may find themselves stuck mid-cross as the light changes. This is a high-risk scenario in heavy traffic areas. 🔄 Best Practice for Safety: Multi-lane crossings should have at least 20–30 seconds of green light, with an added buffer for pedestrians. Increasing the green time could make crossing safer and less stressful, particularly for school children. A more pedestrian-focused design—featuring elevated crosswalks and adequate crossing time—could make this daily crossing safer and more reliable for the community. 💡 #Olomouc #CitySafety #PedestrianSafety #UrbanRenewal #SaferStreets #CrosswalkSafety #PublicInfrastructure #FamilyFriendlyCity #TrafficSafety #OlomoucCityCouncil #ChildrenSafety #BezpečnostChodců #Chodci #Chodník #OlomouckáRadnice #MěstoOlomouc #BezpečnéKřižovatky #PěšíZóny #ZelenéPřechody #ChodciVBezpečí #DětiNaCestách