Expert: Applying or removing the countdown clock system needs careful consideration

Recently, Ho Chi Minh City has piloted the removal of time counters on traffic lights at some major intersections. Explaining this, according to Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport Vo Khanh Hung, the second countdown at intersections helps road users recognize and respond when encountering traffic lights. However, in addition to the advantages, there are situations where people speed up to pass when the green light has only a few seconds left; or try to pass when the red light has not yet ended; the person in front is reminded by the person behind honking. "The fact that both sides are trying to save a few seconds is the cause of traffic collisions. Based on this reality, the Department of Transport has researched the removal of the second counter and has piloted it at 4 intersections," Mr. Vo Khanh Hung informed.

Dr. Nguyen Huu Duc, a traffic expert, affirmed: "There is no basis for such a conclusion. Counting seconds or not, people who intentionally run red lights will still run them."

According to Dr. Nguyen Huu Duc, counting seconds on traffic lights has been a controversial topic for many years, with conflicting opinions. However, the important thing is that whether it is beneficial or not depends largely on road users.

Specifically, counting seconds helps road users know exactly how much time is left before the light changes to another color, helping them move safely and avoid traffic violations. Helps drivers and pedestrians make better decisions. For example, "if you know there are only a few seconds left until the light changes, you can prepare to stop or start moving."

Reduces uncertainty and anxiety, especially for pedestrians trying to cross a busy intersection. Knowing exactly how much time is left can help people assess whether they have enough time to cross safely.

Traffic experts say there is no basis to conclude that countdown clocks are the cause of traffic accidents. Counting seconds or not, people who intentionally run red lights will still run them.

"It can help make traffic flow smoother by helping drivers predict when the lights will change, reducing sudden stops and starts. When drivers know the remaining time, they can adjust their speed appropriately, avoid sudden braking or acceleration, contributing to reducing traffic congestion," said Dr. Nguyen Huu Duc.

However, the countdown timer also has certain limitations such as the number of seconds on the traffic light can be disadvantageous depending on the awareness of the road user. When the green light is about to end, if the road user actively stops the vehicle, the vehicle and the person are safe, but many people rush to cross the intersection, speeding up to get through the intersection before the light changes. This is a dangerous behavior, causing risks.

The application or removal of the countdown clock system should be carefully considered based on the specific conditions of each locality.

Currently, counting seconds on traffic lights is commonly applied in many countries around the world. However, there are also some countries that do not use this system. In Vietnam, counting seconds on traffic lights is being piloted in some localities and has received mixed feedback.

"Counting seconds on traffic lights has both benefits and limitations. The application of this system needs to be carefully considered based on the specific conditions of each locality. In addition, it is necessary to emphasize that the effectiveness of the second counting system depends on many factors such as the awareness of traffic participants, the quality of traffic lights, etc. There should be measures to promote traffic awareness for people so that they can use the second counting system effectively and safely," emphasized Dr. Nguyen Huu Duc.

According to VOV

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