There are some rules for walking in urban areas that not everyone knows.

Many people believe that we currently lack a pedestrian culture, so people walk wherever they please, freely crossing the road regardless of traffic signals.

One instance of people carrying heavy loads walking down into the street. Photo: Hoang Giang

According to the Road Traffic Law: Pedestrians must walk on sidewalks or shoulders; if there are no sidewalks or shoulders, pedestrians must walk close to the edge of the road. Pedestrians may only cross the road at places with traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, or pedestrian overpasses or underpasses, and must obey the traffic signals.

In the absence of traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, overpasses, or underpasses, pedestrians must observe approaching vehicles, only cross the road when it is safe to do so, and are responsible for ensuring their own safety when crossing the road.

Pedestrians are not allowed to cross the median strip or cling to moving vehicles; when carrying bulky objects, they must ensure safety and not obstruct other road users and vehicles.

Children under 7 years old must be accompanied by an adult when crossing urban roads or roads with frequent motor vehicle traffic; everyone has a responsibility to assist children under 7 years old when crossing the road.

Regarding specific penalty regulations, Decree 46/2016 on administrative penalties in the field of traffic also stipulates them. Please see the infographic below:

Furthermore, if violations of road traffic regulations result in serious consequences, pedestrians may also face criminal prosecution.

In short, traffic laws for pedestrians are clearly defined, yet we still witness many tragic accidents caused by reckless pedestrian behavior.

Crossing the street properly demonstrates good pedestrian etiquette.

Many people believe that we currently lack a pedestrian culture, leading people to cross roads haphazardly, disregarding traffic signals. Few people choose to use pedestrian bridges, and they seem to be falling into oblivion... Therefore, building a pedestrian culture will contribute to reducing accidents and making urban life more civilized and modern.

When asked, many residents said that imposing administrative penalties on pedestrians is necessary. This is because, generally speaking, the density of pedestrians participating in traffic is increasing, and in fact, many accidents have occurred as a result.

However, some argue that before penalizing pedestrians, the first step should be to ensure clear sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. Pedestrian crossings must be respected by all vehicles. Currently, crossing the road at the designated crossing is a nerve-wracking experience, with people flailing their arms and legs, and no vehicles yielding! As a result, people rush across whenever they see an empty space, and the penalties for this are not very reasonable. In other countries, there's no need for fines because pedestrian crossings are readily available, and vehicles slow down or stop when they see someone crossing. That's the way to go!

Others say: There are many streets in Ho Chi Minh City where it would be difficult to force pedestrians to cross legally because there are no sidewalks. If the government wants to fine people, it must first clear the roads and sidewalks, and distribute traffic signs and crosswalks appropriately so that people will accept the fines willingly.

But anyway, the law is in place, and people have to abide by it. As for creating conditions that make it easier for pedestrians to get around, that requires intervention from local authorities and relevant agencies...

There's a pedestrian bridge, but many people still don't use it...

According to PLO