Both sides of the story

Fatalities resulting from pedestrians losing their lives after being run over by vehicles comprise 30 to 40 per cent of total deaths on Dubai roads annually. While all unanimously agree that there is need for more pedestrian bridges and crossings, drivers and pedestrians continue to pass the blame to each other. While drivers urge pedestrians to be cautious, the latter lament a lack respect for those travelling on foot. Gulf News gets both view points.

Motorist

“It is very dangerous for people to attempt crossing roads when cars are whizzing past above 80km per hour. Unfortunately, they do not realise it and put their lives at risk. And the blame comes on drivers who are caught unwary. I agree that there are not enough crossings for pedestrians and we definitely need many more on different roads. But I have seen pedestrians dashing across the road, ignoring a zebra crossing or pedestrian bridge that is a few metres away.
Muhanad Ashkar,
Marketing Executive, 23

Pedestrian

I do no think it is right to say we are careless when crossing the roads. Who wants to put their lives at risk? But what do we do when there aren't any facilities for us. For instance, in the road leading to Al Tawuun mall, where I work, I have to wait at least 15 minutes to cross the road. So we wait when the traffic slows down to dart across. Drivers should understand and be a little more considerate.
Vishwanath Pujari
Cook, 31