Every accident affects countless families. The Government must act quickly on several fronts: road design, enforcement technology, legal review and infrastructure optimisation, protecting the lives of both pedestrians and drivers.
The “Traffic Accident Black Spot Information Map” is positive, but issuing warnings is not enough. The Government should review major roads, especially near schools and elderly care centres, relocating dangerous pedestrian crossings placed on sharp bends or in blind spots.
In view of blind spots caused by construction barriers, trees and illegal parking by heavy vehicles, it is suggested that “pedestrian crossings with night-time flashing lights” be tested and “pedestrian-activated traffic lights” installed, ensuring absolute priority for pedestrians.
In enforcement, the use of “technological empowerment” is urgent. It is suggested that AI-powered video surveillance be adopted to detect offences, together with big data analysis at accident black spots and on busy roads. Smart 24/7 supervision can fill gaps in daily patrols, making enforcement against offences such as “failing to give way” constant and raising drivers’ awareness of road safety.
To reduce accidents at their source, updating the law is essential. The sanctions under the current Road Traffic Law have lost deterrent effect in the face of development and the increase in vehicles. The previous review did not move forward, but it is now included in the 3rd Five-Year Plan under consultation. The Government has promised to bring forward this review. Until then, police enforcement and technology should work together to curb offences.
In addition to optimising infrastructure, “co-governance” is also suggested. A fast reporting channel should be created for joint monitoring. When citizens notice dangerous manhole covers, or minor slips caused by them, they can report the problem. The authorities should then repair the site quickly, eliminating risks at source and improving road safety in Macao.
