Bandung

๐Ÿšฆ

Traffic Safety

Sections

Traffic Safety in Bandung, Indonesia

1. Road Conditions

  • Quality: Roads in Bandung vary; main roads are generally paved and maintained, while side streets may be poorly maintained with potholes.
  • Weather Impact: Heavy rain can lead to flooding and landslides, affecting road safety and accessibility.
  • Traffic Congestion: Bandung experiences significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours (morning and evening).

2. Traffic Laws

  • Driving Side: Vehicles drive on the left side of the road.
  • Speed Limits: Generally, 60 km/h in urban areas and 100 km/h on highways. Speed limits are often not strictly enforced.
  • Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers; fines apply for non-compliance.
  • Helmet Use: Mandatory for motorcyclists; fines for violations.

3. Common Safety Concerns

  • Motorcycle Accidents: High incidence due to the popularity of motorcycles; ensure proper helmet use and awareness of surrounding traffic.
  • Pedestrian Safety: Limited crosswalks and traffic signals; pedestrians should exercise caution and be aware of vehicles.
  • Driving Behavior: Aggressive driving and disregard for traffic signals are common; defensive driving is essential.

4. Public Transportation Safety

  • Buses and Angkots: Public transport is widely used; however, overcrowding and reckless driving can pose risks.
  • Ride-Hailing Services: Popular and generally safe; use reputable apps (e.g., Gojek, Grab).
  • Safety Tips: Always confirm the driver's identity and vehicle details before entering.

5. Pedestrian Considerations

  • Crossing Streets: Use pedestrian bridges where available; be cautious when crossing busy roads.
  • Sidewalks: Often obstructed by vendors or parked vehicles; stay alert while walking.

6. Cultural Norms Related to Traffic

  • Driving Etiquette: Be prepared for informal rules; honking is common to signal presence.
  • Respect for Local Customs: Local drivers may not always yield to pedestrians; assertiveness is sometimes necessary.

7. Costs

  • Fines for Violations:
    • Not wearing a seatbelt: IDR 250,000
    • Not wearing a helmet: IDR 250,000
    • Running a red light: IDR 500,000
  • Public Transportation Fees:
    • Buses: IDR 5,000 - 10,000 per trip
    • Angkots: IDR 3,000 - 5,000 per trip
    • Ride-hailing: Varies based on distance; typically IDR 15,000 - 50,000 for short trips.

8. Procedures

  • Reporting Accidents: Contact local police (Polisi) at 110; gather evidence (photos, witness statements) for insurance claims.
  • Obtaining a Local Driving License:
    • Requirements: Valid international driving permit, identification, and a medical certificate.
    • Process: Visit the local police station or the Department of Transportation (Dinas Perhubungan) for application.

9. Local Site Considerations

  • Traffic Hotspots: Areas like Dago, Cihampelas, and the city center are prone to heavy traffic; plan routes accordingly.
  • Tourist Areas: Be cautious in tourist-heavy areas where traffic patterns may differ.

10. Unique Challenges

  • Environmental Factors: Air pollution can affect visibility and health; consider using masks during high pollution days.
  • Cultural Events: Local festivals may disrupt traffic; check local news for updates on road closures.

Conclusion

Navigating traffic in Bandung requires awareness of local conditions, adherence to traffic laws, and consideration of cultural norms. Prioritize safety by using public transportation wisely, being cautious as a pedestrian, and driving defensively.