Local Judge Consuelo Scerri Herrera recently called on legislators to consider the introduction of pedestrian offences on the Maltese Islands. He mentioned that pedestrians, like drivers, have obligations of safety on the road, and yet, pedestrians tend to find the most convenient spot and cross bl-addoċċ (haphazardly), even when there’s a zebra crossing two metres away!
We can't help but ask ourselves: would this work in Malta? Many Maltese agree with the idea of introducing pedestrian offences but claim that nothing will change unless the infrastructure of the country is improved. One Facebook user comments, “Before the introduction of such a law (which I agree with), pedestrians need to be provided with adequate pavements. Currently our infrastructure is 100 per cent not adequate. Especially if you go around with a pushchair. You have two choices, walk in the street or use your car.”
Another quipped that Government “should first provide roads where one can jaywalk in! With limited accessibility, not even jaywalking can be done!” This commenter goes on to say that pavements are constantly being obstructed by construction, restaurant tables, parked cars, or are simply in bad shape - so what choice do we have in those situations?
And while the island's laid back attitude is often a good thing, enforcement in Malta remains a big issue. Using phones while driving is prohibited yet still done. No smoking while driving is prohibited and still done. “Jaywalking might take a while to get to,” says one Facebook user.
We're confused. Do you think jaywalking should be made illegal on the Maltese Islands? Let us know in the comments below!