Pedestrians are frequently observed crossing the roadway at undesignated locations, or even being present on the roadway while intoxicated and not equipped with retroreflective elements. There are also drivers who lose their vigilance and self-control. All of these factors contribute to road traffic accidents, including collisions with pedestrians, especially during hours of darkness.
Since the beginning of the current year, 78 road traffic accidents involving pedestrians have been registered within the Vitebsk region, resulting in 19 fatalities and 63 injuries of varying severity. Within the Lepel district, 2 road traffic accidents involving pedestrians have been registered, both of which resulted in the death of the pedestrians. The aforementioned incidents occurred during hours of darkness, and the pedestrians were not marked with retroreflective elements.
Liability for violations committed by pedestrians is stipulated by Article 18.23 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Belarus. According to the sanctions of this article, a fine of up to 3 base units (76 Belarusian rubles and 50 kopecks) is prescribed, and up to 5 base units (127 Belarusian rubles and 50 kopecks) if intoxicated.