APPENDIX B
ALTERNATIVE MEASURES
In terms of other measures to address congestion,
RAC believes driver behaviour is an important factor in achieving
efficient use of the road network. There has been much discussion
about switching modes and making less journeys, but far less debate
about the impact of poor driving standards and behaviour. For
example, erratic driving, handheld mobile phone use, failure to
signal before manoeuvring, inconsiderate manoeuvres and inconsiderate
parking all contribute to congestion, let alone road safety impact.
Improving driving standards of experienced drivers,
while perhaps not an easy task in the "me" society and
undoubtedly made worse by the frustrations of congestion, would
be an environmentally friendly and highly desirable objective
to improve traffic flow and maximise the existing capacity.
This is arguably a more achievable short term
objective than modal switch. It is a matter of personal responsibility
and can only really be tackled through education and training,
awareness campaigns and in some cases clearer road signage and
layouts. While generally discussed in the context of road safety,
driving standards and behaviour merit further consideration in
the context of congestion management alongside the grander ambitions
of road user charging.
RAC plc
November 2004
|
