The abnormally warm, snowless weather with increased humidity and precipitation, which has prevailed in all regions of the republic in recent days, negatively affects road traffic safety. The most common type of road traffic accident under these conditions is pedestrian collisions.
During hours of darkness, traffic police inspectors pay increased attention to monitoring drivers' and pedestrians' compliance with traffic regulations on sections of motor roads and streets in populated areas with the highest risk of pedestrian collisions. The main proportion of such fatal incidents occurs during hours of darkness when a driver is unable to see people who have entered the roadway.In the prevailing weather conditions, vulnerable road users should be particularly attentive, move along sidewalks, pedestrian or bicycle paths, and only when these are absent, along the roadside. In cases where the shoulders are not suitable for movement, it is permitted to walk along the edge of the roadway, but only facing the traffic flow!
When visibility deteriorates, pedestrians are advised to wear bright clothing, and during hours of darkness, to use retroreflective elements! Reflective bands, pendants, or vests allow a pedestrian to be visible in headlight beams at a distance of 130 to 400 metres. This gives the driver 15-25 seconds to take measures to avoid a collision.
Reflectors should be placed on all sides for maximum visibility, at a height of approximately 80-100 cm from the ground, i.e., on the hips or chest of an adult, or at the level of the shoulders and head of a child. The best option is a tape at least 7 cm long. At least one such item should be placed on clothing; others can be of different shapes and smaller sizes. It is most effective to use at least 4 retroreflectors.