For context, with the West they mean Western US, not “The West” as in, US, EU, Australia
Wow, I have not read an article that has missed the mark so terribly in a while.
Many in the unhoused community like those referenced in that article have a do-what-they-want mentality and will cross whenever they want regardless of rules, lights, or danger. Maximum D.G.A.F.
Second, yes there is a drug problem and that can increase unpredictability, though their outbursts usually stay out of the streets and keeps to curbs. Some seem to have no idea where they are including street lanes.
Third, and a very unfortunate one, is mental health of the unhoused population. When I read about an unfortunate incident nearby, it sometimes involves vehicles because of the danger. Walking on an active freeway has shut down the entire road in the past, but police haven’t always reached them in time. Overpasses shut down occasionally too when those rare situations arise. Police response seems very quick and have resolved the situation successfully when they do.
We provide support for our unhoused, but not all want that. There is a overlooked problem that leads to the data collected forthis article that this author completely ignores.
Shouldn’t people in cities be allowed to cross wherever they want? What’s so special about car drivers that they should have priority?
Yes, but also no. Roads, like all sorts of public services, are shared. Everyone’s needs are weighed equally with all who use this infrastructure. Rules are created for the safety of drivers and pedestrians.
Many cities like mine do allow pedestrians to cross wherever they want when it is safe to do so. The responsibility is on the pedestrian to make that decision safely. If it can’t be done safely, there are rules and locations for pedestrians to exercise their right-of-way.
The responsibility is also on drivers, they must give way to vulnerable road users, at least they are where I live
