Yes, but also no. Roads, like all sorts of public services, are shared. Everyone’s needs are weighed equally with all who use this infrastructure. Rules are created for the safety of drivers and pedestrians.
Many cities like mine do allow pedestrians to cross wherever they want when it is safe to do so. The responsibility is on the pedestrian to make that decision safely. If it can’t be done safely, there are rules and locations for pedestrians to exercise their right-of-way.
Shouldn’t people in cities be allowed to cross wherever they want? What’s so special about car drivers that they should have priority?
Yes, but also no. Roads, like all sorts of public services, are shared. Everyone’s needs are weighed equally with all who use this infrastructure. Rules are created for the safety of drivers and pedestrians.
Many cities like mine do allow pedestrians to cross wherever they want when it is safe to do so. The responsibility is on the pedestrian to make that decision safely. If it can’t be done safely, there are rules and locations for pedestrians to exercise their right-of-way.
The responsibility is also on drivers, they must give way to vulnerable road users, at least they are where I live