No pedestrian lane? Observe the ‘Safe Gap’ when crossing the street

We cannot emphasize it enough: Always use the pedestrian lane when crossing the street.

And when there is none, observe what experts call the Safe Gap.

In a recent episode of "Alisto," Eric Lazarte, the National Chairman of Philippine Advocates for Road Safety, introduced viewers to the concept of the Safe Gap.

A Safe Gap is a safe distance between the pedestrian and oncoming cars that allows for a cautious crossing of the street.

The safe gap is 30 meters or the equivalent of six cars from where you are standing.

According to experts, 30 meters is enough to give drivers time and space to see you, the pedestrian, as well as to press on the brakes.

In some roads, there is also the Pedestrian Refuge, a feature in a center island where pedestrians can wait out the traffic until a Safe Gap appears.

Experts also advised pedestrians and commuters to mind the curb. It is the safest place on the road to hail taxis or jeeps. — LA, GMA News