The Decoding of Traffic Signs by Motorcycle Riders in Jakarta Indonesia

Abstract

Should the rapid growth of motor vehicles and inhabitants goes unanticipated, it is certain that the motor vehicles pacing in JABODETABEK area will significantly decelerate. The problem of clogging in Jakarta is not only due to the ever increasing number of motor vehicles and minimum development of streets, but also to the behavior of road users. The behavior of road users is vital in solving the problems in transportation such as clogging or traffic safety like the circumstances in Jakarta today. This study aims at analyzing and understanding the occurrence of disorderliness/indiscipline phenomenon in road traffic, in particular the one related to ignorance to meaning of traffic signs, road markings, and traffic signal emitting devices perceived from social scope. This study employs qualitative method and is limited to specific road segments in Jakarta Megalopolis Area in particular the ones passed by the author, including Jakarta, Southern Tangerang, and Depok City areas. From the discoveries, the violation and ignorance to the meaning of traffic signs, road markings, and traffic signal emitting devices are stimulated by internal and external factors. The motorcycle riders are inclined to ignore the meaning of traffic signs, road markings, and traffic signal emitting devices due to conditions such as the non-existence of sanction unless when there is police inspection. The role and presence of traffic and transportation officer at the intersection or road crossing do not seem optimum.