October 29 – Single Road Safety Day «Pedestrian crossing – an area of increased attention!»

Unfortunately, pedestrian crossings are places where both drivers and pedestrians violate rules. Since the beginning of 2021, there have already been 30 accidents due to violations of pedestrian crossing rules. 5 people died, and 29 were injured.

 

Remember:

Drivers must consider the behavior of pedestrians and react appropriately to their actions. By various signs, it is almost always possible to determine the intention to step onto the road in a place not intended for that. A pedestrian already on the roadway, upon seeing a rapidly approaching car, usually gets confused and most often tries to go back. If they have walked halfway, you should drive around from behind; if they have just stepped onto the roadway, reduce speed and be ready to brake.

Not every pedestrian can determine the speed of an approaching vehicle. Elderly people, children, and many adults have a poor understanding of vehicle capabilities. They react more to their external effect. They are more likely to let a semi-truck or truck pass. A passenger car moving much faster does not cause them such a sense of alarm. In groups, pedestrians are even bolder, especially after a prolonged wait to cross during continuous traffic flow.

Special attention should be paid to the possibility of children appearing on the roadway. They are usually impatient, often misjudging the direction and speed of a car. Children may start running across the roadway directly in front of the car without looking. Sometimes, after letting one or two cars pass and waiting a little, they lose patience and run into the road in front of the next one. Parents need to discuss such situations with their children and remember to set a good example.

Alexander Orekhov, Head of the Traffic Police Department of the District Executive Committee's Internal Affairs Directorate