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Imagine the traffic lights opening their eyes to check out for elderly pedestrians.
No, this is not some War of the Worlds scenario. This is an innovation from Land Transport Authority (LTA) designed to detect elderly pedestrians crossing the road. It uses the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology.
When the RFID readers mounted on the traffic light poles detect elderly pedestrians crossing the road, the system will extend the 'green man' timing, giving them up to 5 seconds to cross.
LTA will be testing this system at the junction of Toa Payoh Central and Toa Payoh Lorong 4, where intelligent studs have already been installed. The test trial, which will involve 30 elderly pedestrians, is expected to last 9 months.
This system will greatly benefit Singapore's increasing ageing population, who are at risk to road fatalities because of their slower walking speeds.
Accident statistics from the Traffic Police showed that one in two fatal traffic accidents last year involved an elderly person. After the trial has concluded, LTA will consider extending this program to the other 1,900 signalized pedestrian crossings in Singapore.
We cannot rely on just engineering solutions to enhance pedestrian' safety. All road users play a very important role. As a motorist, you can play a part by exercising patience, especially to the elderly. We can all help to reduce the risk that they face on the roads.
No, this is not some War of the Worlds scenario. This is an innovation from Land Transport Authority (LTA) designed to detect elderly pedestrians crossing the road. It uses the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology.
When the RFID readers mounted on the traffic light poles detect elderly pedestrians crossing the road, the system will extend the 'green man' timing, giving them up to 5 seconds to cross.
LTA will be testing this system at the junction of Toa Payoh Central and Toa Payoh Lorong 4, where intelligent studs have already been installed. The test trial, which will involve 30 elderly pedestrians, is expected to last 9 months.
This system will greatly benefit Singapore's increasing ageing population, who are at risk to road fatalities because of their slower walking speeds.
Accident statistics from the Traffic Police showed that one in two fatal traffic accidents last year involved an elderly person. After the trial has concluded, LTA will consider extending this program to the other 1,900 signalized pedestrian crossings in Singapore.
We cannot rely on just engineering solutions to enhance pedestrian' safety. All road users play a very important role. As a motorist, you can play a part by exercising patience, especially to the elderly. We can all help to reduce the risk that they face on the roads.
Last Updated: 9 April 2008