Pedestrians

Pedestrians should always be alert and use extreme caution crossing streets, even when crossing at pedestrian crosswalks. Frequently drivers (of cars, motorcycles and even bicycles) will not stop. Generally, the crossings with lights tend to be safer, although it is not uncommon for an impatient driver to angle through even when there is a red light. Bicyclists are also known for ignoring traffic lights altogether. Even when walking on sidewalks, pedestrians need to be aware of the porticos through which motorbikes often ride in an attempt to bypass traffic and from which apartment residents access parking. Drivers in Italy are famous for beeping, cursing, and gesturing in an inhospitable manner at both pedestrians and other drivers. It is nothing to take personally.