I AGREE entirely with Peter Hayman (Letters, November 12) and some other recent correspondents, that a shockingly high number of motorists seem to be unaware of Highway Code Rule 170 which accords priority to pedestrians who have started to cross at a road junction. Likewise, pedestrians seem to be unaware of the corresponding Rule 8, which states that turning traffic should give way to someone who has started to cross. The word '"should" is significant in the Code. It means that there is no associated law to back up the rule. If there were, the rule would say "must" and prosecution could follow if rule-breaking were to be observed by police.
Unfortunately, the Code is silent on what pedestrians are supposed to do at the increasing number of mini-roundabouts that have replaced many standard road junctions, where priorities used to be clear, albeit ignored. The main point of mini-roundabouts seems to be to improve traffic flow – that is, allow it to go faster. It certainly does that, which increases the risk to crossing pedestrians. Not content with that, many drivers cut the corner and go round the wrong side of the central markings, bringing them even closer to someone crossing in the same direction. Going round the wrong side can be prosecuted, although I have never heard of it happening.
Thomas GF Gray, Lenzie.
PETER Hayman's statement that "shared-use space, well designed, does work" (Letters, November 12) will be greeted with scorn, disbelief and exasperation by the people of Kirkintilloch. The shared space in our town centre is intensely disliked by pedestrians, especially those with sight impairment, as well as vehicle users.
Campbell McInroy, Kirkintilloch.
MISS J Walker is innocent! OK?
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