You Asked (29-09-2009)

You Asked

(29-09-2009)

Dear Viet Nam News,

I have lived in Viet Nam for 11 years and made many changes in my own behaviour and expectations over the years as I am a guest in this country. Most of the time I can say that many issues no longer challenge me as they might a newer emigre.

However I am incensed every time I try to walk over pedestrian crossings, as I presume they have been marked out to provide protection. Actually on nearly every crossing, I risk my life.

I would be grateful for answers to the following queries.

1. Since 99 per cent of Vietnamese drivers don’t respect pedestrian crossings, why does the Ministry of Transport paint them on the road? Is there actually a regulation that prohibits people from driving across in front of people using the crossing? Why don’t the police enforce it?

2. Are Vietnamese drivers aware of their safety aspect and do any care that they might hit someone and hurt or kill them? I use these crossings regularly, but have been hit several times. If I shout at those who hit me or who come very close, I am met with a torrent of words as if I am the one in the wrong.

3. Since almost everyone is convinced that the crossings offer no protection, they are encouraged to dash across wherever it is convenient. Therefore, as a driver, I often come close to hitting them as they dive across the road, often from behind parked cars or other obstructions, which makes it difficult to see them. So my last question is, if I hit such a pedestrian with my motorbike, who is at fault, me or them? What is the regulation on accidents where the pedestrian cannot be seen and what is at stake for an innocent driver, particularly a foreigner, who hits a random pedestrian using such risky behaviour?

Many thanks for any assistance you can give me!!

Melissa Merryweather

Dear Ms Merryweather,

Transportation in Viet Nam is really a headache. Many readers of Viet Nam News shared the same feeling. Crossing is not only a nightmare for foreigners, but Vietnamese as well. We understand your feeling.

Regarding your concerns, the Deputy Director of Viet Nam Road Administration, Nguyen Van Quyen, says that Viet Nam Road Transport Law, Article 32, regulates pedestrian rights and responsibilities in detail.

In terms of enforcement, the head of the Advisory Board under the Road and Railway Transportation Police Department, La Khac Hoa, says the law sets a fine of VND50,000 (US$2.80) for an illegal road crossing. However, the awareness of citizens is low and there are not enough police to handle the situation. He says a camera system monitors some traffic spots, but there are not enough resources to cover all danger areas.

He says the department is working on a plan dealing with all traffic violations. Under it, the camera system will be upgraded and capture more violations. The draft has been approved by the Prime Minister and is expected to come into effect at the end of this year.

The answer to the second question depends on who is asked and by whom.

Regarding your last question, the National Transport Safety Committee says no nationwide plan exists on pedestrian road crossings. Authorities of provinces and cities have their own right to make decisions. Ha Noi has a plan to build pedestrian bridges across roads. A total of 18 will be built in heavy traffic areas.

Regarding the pedestrians running out from behind cars, Hoa confirms the pedestrian will be charged. According to Hoa, there have been cases where pedestrians faced trial for their illegal behaviour.

The Editor