Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users.
Two thirds of accidents involving a vehicle and a pedestrian happen in the dark. A pedestrian's visibility also depends on their clothing. A car driver can see a pedestrian in dark clothing from a distance of 25 m, a pedestrian with light clothing from 40 m and one wearing reflective accessories from 140 m away.
Pedestrians and children: be visible!
- Wear light-coloured clothing or clothing with integrated reflective elements.
- Use luminous or reflective items on your clothes, briefcases, bags and umbrella so that you are visible from all sides.
- Wear a high visibility jacket or armband.
- Walk facing oncoming traffic and always wear a high visibility jacket if walking along roads away from built-up areas.
- Take account of the speed and distance of approaching vehicles. Make sure you have been seen by car drivers before crossing the road.
- Put a reflective collar on your dog.
- Be aware that you do not have absolute priority on pedestrian crossings, so before stepping onto the crossing make sure that you can do so safely.
- Only cross the road when the crossing light is green, and do not turn round and go back if the light changes to red.
- Do not let yourself be lulled into a false sense of security by a familiar environment meaning you cross the road without paying attention.
- Indicate clearly that you intend to cross the road (make a sign with your hand if necessary) and ensure that all road users have understood that you are going to cross.