Pavement users will soon be required to have a valid walking licence and an insurance policy, according to a new legal document being drawn up by the Transport Ministry.
Addressing a press conference, minister Ian Borg said Malta’s increasing population was becoming more and more dangerous to cars, which could be seriously damaged when hit by people.
“When a pedestrian smashes into a car, this can dent the latter’s bodywork and scratch its paint job,” Borg said, adding that this was especially common when pedestrians were too slow to get out of the way of an oncoming vehicle.
“If people want to walk in public, they must be aged 18 or over, and will also need to take a test to prove they can ambulate responsibly. In case of emergency, they should be able roll over a car without breaking its windscreen, while taking all the damage themselves.”
As part of the new guidelines, it will be also be illegal for pedestrians to cross the road at a speed of less than 20 kmph, with zebra crossings being abolished. Those caught under-speeding will be fined a minimum of €1000.
Furthermore, all pedestrians must wear a helmet and a high visibility vest.
“If pavement walkers want to avoid all this hassle, they should stop being losers and buy a car like a normal Maltese person,” Borg concluded, noting that he dreamed of the day when his daughter could live in a pedestrian-free country.
