A nationwide social campaign is underway. “Let’s take care of safety on our roads – live life”, which aims to draw attention to your own security after dark.
In 2017, 873 pedestrians were killed in road accidents in Poland and 7,587 were injured. The autumn and winter season is a tragic period for pedestrians, 549 people died in this season in 2017.
One of the reasons for road accidents is the lack of wearing reflective vests in the evening and night by pedestrians. Particularly exposed are residents of villages and small towns, where street lighting is sometimes turned off at 21-22. There are no sidewalks, and the shoulders are often unsuitable for pedestrians, including those in wheelchairs who are pedestrians by law.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Road Traffic Law, pedestrians who move along the road after dark outside the built-up area are obliged to use reflective materials in a manner visible to other road users. An exception is provided in the regulations: a pedestrian can move around outside the built-up area without retro-reflective elements, if it is on a road intended for pedestrians only or on the sidewalk.
Outside the built-up area, the roads usually do not have separate pavements and are mostly not lit or are poorly lit. In addition, drivers develop much higher speeds than in the built-up area, and pedestrians in dark clothes, without reflections, unfortunately are completely invisible to drivers. Correctly worn reflectors can save lives by walking.
The reflective element should be placed in such a place that it will be in the field of car light and it would be noticeable for drivers approaching from both directions (back and front). The car dipped beam illuminates the path asymmetrically (more light is directed to the right side of the road), therefore it is recommended to walk the left side of the road (in the opposite direction to the vehicle traffic) wearing reflectors on the right hand or leg (from the direction of vehicle movement).
Here are some rules for good pedestrian visibility after dark in traffic:
1.Wear reflections – no gadgets!
When buying a reflector, pay attention to whether the CE mark has been affixed to it, the name of the manufacturer and the type of the product and whether the instructions for use are included. The lack of these elements means that it is a gadget – not a reflection.
2.Be visible – do not cover it!
Check if the reflective elements are not covered by, for example: a scarf, a bag or a backpack.
3.You care for health – be an example!
Do you like to run? Use reflective elements if you do not permanently wear sports clothing.
4.You love – take care of security!
Make sure your loved ones are visible on the road and use reflective elements.
5.Live – think!
Do not enter the road directly in front of a moving vehicle, including a pedestrian crossing. Wear reflective clothing.
Let’s be seen on the road, roadside and sidewalk.