Wintertime transition: Beware, danger!

Accidents involving pedestrians increase by half at this time of year! To reduce this risk, here are some common sense rules:

• Wear light-coloured clothing, a reflective armband or a hi-vis waistcoat.
• Add reflective strips to your bag and your children’s school bags.
• Only walk on the pavement.
• Use pedestrian crossings and be extra careful when crossing the road.

For cyclists, speed and lack of visibility are factors that can increase the risk of an accident. To ensure your safety, here are some practical tips:

• Check that your bike’s accessories (lights, reflectors, etc.) are working properly.
• Add reflective strips to your helmet and bag.
• Wear a reflective armband or hi-vis vest.
• Avoid riding on the pavement and use cycle paths.

To avoid hitting a pedestrian or cyclist, you should do the following:

• Check the condition of your headlights.
• Clean the windscreen, side windows and rear window of your vehicle.
• Respect the speed limits and safety distances.
• Slow down when approaching a pedestrian crossing.

The bottom line is that during winter months, extra vigilance is required, and the keyword is: visibility! Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians must see and be seen more than ever.