Low-cost life savers

TRAFFIC LIGHTS
These should only be used at high-traffic intersections. Traffic lights at low volume intersections may increase accidents because drivers are prone to ignore them. Lights must be programmed to allow sufficient time for crossing an intersection. They also should be combined with other measures to prevent high-speed right turns during a red light, for example.

PEDESTRIAN-ONLY-STREETS
In highly congested commercial areas, closing some streets to vehicles can benefit pedestrians (who find it easier to get to stores), shopkeepers (who usually see increased customer volume) and drivers (who must dodge fewer pedestrians).

LIGHTING
Extra streetlights help drivers see pedestrians and other vehicles, reducing the risk of accidents. Some cities encourage children to wear light colors or reflector vests when they walk to school in the early morning or evening.

BUS LANES

Reserving certain lanes for buses, light rail or other kinds of public transport can both diminish congestion and prevent accidents. Road dividers and medians can also force cars to follow a more predictable course.

SIDEWALKS
In many cities sidewalks should be widened and more clearly marked to separate pedestrians and cars.

VIDEO TRAFFIC MONITORS
Cameras, typically placed at busy intersections, record the license plates of cars running red lights or breaking other laws, making it possible to issue tickets to all offenders. They have a powerful deterrent effect and are increasingly popular in Brazil and several other Latin American countries. The systems typically pay for themselves through increased ticket revenues, in addition to a lower number of accidents.

SPEED BUMPS
This most basic of measures slows traffic where other means fail. The bumps must be well designed, clearly marked and preceded by multiple warning signs to prevent damage to vehicles.