[Sigia-l] Counterintuitive

[Yogesh Tadwalkar]

Hi,

I wonder whether this is brilliant traffic design or simply going back in 
time when no design existed.

While it will be really nice to hear the real experience of drivers or 
pedestrians from Netherlands, I sincerely doubt whether the basic premise 
here that accidents happen because drivers attention  is 'diverted' by signs 
and traffic lights is correct.

This system seems undesirable for a number of reasons:

1. No one can set expectations or form habits. Nobody is sure what's going 
to happen the next moment, neither drivers nor pedestrians. This will 
undoubtedly slow the speed of cars as well as pedestrians. Considering this 
is a 'busy  intersection'  - this will cause congestion and pollution.

2. No rules situation loads working memory beyond what's necessary. Now 
speaking on cell phones while driving (something people will not stop doing 
despite all stats) will be even more dangerous. As for pedestrians, even a 
small conversation with a friend will be impossible while crossing the road.

3. No dividers between roads and sidewalks? Where do people stand if they 
want to ask for directions or kiss someone goodbye before crossing? Or is 
that not allowed?

I seroiusly doubt whether this will reduce accidents in the long run. And 
even if it does, it will be at the cost of human habits, comfort, time, and 
the environment.

regards,
yogesh

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Listera" <listera at rcn.com>
it is only when the road is made more dangerous, when drivers stop
> looking at signs and start looking at other people, that driving becomes
> safer.