Final answer:
Providing pedestrians and bicyclists with additional space is crucial for safety, allows safer navigation across roads, and compensates for perceptual differences in speed and distance for various observers.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is important to provide pedestrians or bicyclists with additional space when sharing the road for several critical reasons. Primarily, ensuring pedestrian safety is a significant concern as pedestrians and bicyclists are more vulnerable in traffic scenarios. Increased space allows these individuals to navigate roads without the immediate threat of collisions.
Vehicles traveling at high speeds or not adhering to speed limits further exacerbate dangers to pedestrians. A traffic signal and adequate space provide pedestrians and cyclists the opportunity to cross intersections safely and at appropriate times. Moreover, in busy cities, the noise of crowded roadways can hinder communication, making it difficult for pedestrians to signal their intentions to drivers. Hence, physical space becomes an essential buffer for safety.
Lastly, the perception of speed and distance can be different for various observers, such as a bus passenger versus someone on a sidewalk. Allowing extra space compensates for these differences, reducing the risk of misjudgment that might lead to accidents. It is clear that providing extra space to those not in vehicles not only enhances safety but also contributes to a more harmonious sharing of the road.