Drivers and pedestrians, please be attentive!

6 February The State Automobile Inspectorate of the Vitebsk region will conduct a set of preventive measures to prevent road traffic accidents in the dark with the participation of vulnerable road users.

Road safety is an ever-relevant topic. Vulnerable road users and their safety on the road in the dark remain a particular cause for concern. Neglecting simple safety measures by the most vulnerable road users leads to extremely severe consequences. This is precisely why each of us must not only be aware of all the dangers that the road holds but also observe the rules and take care of our own safety. However, in reality, it often happens otherwise.

In the dark or in conditions of poor visibility, fatal road traffic accidents occur 3 times more often than during the day. The main reason is poor visibility of the object. Therefore, the use of retroreflective elements by pedestrians remains one of the most effective ways to ensure their safety on the road. In addition, it is very important for drivers to consider that on roads adjacent to populated areas, there is a high probability of their sudden appearance on the carriageway.

Drivers and pedestrians participating in traffic should, first and foremost, remember responsible behaviour on the road and constant self-control.

We urge citizens not to remain indifferent and to report by phone 102 instances of intoxicated pedestrians or cyclists on the road whose behaviour is unsafe and requires immediate measures to remove them from the carriageway. Perhaps your call will help avoid a tragedy and save someone's life.

In addition, drivers and pedestrians, be attentive on the road in winter!

Drivers should consider that road conditions along the route can change rapidly. Be especially attentive when passing pedestrian crossings, choose a safe speed, lateral clearance, and maintain a safe distance, try to avoid sudden manoeuvres and braking. Ensure that all occupants of the vehicle are wearing seat belts.

Pedestrians should also exercise increased caution: cross the road only at designated places, and even at controlled crossings, do not start moving until all vehicles have stopped.