Safe in the Dark

Multiple reflectors, on both sides of the body. That’s Björkman’s golden rule for wearing reflectors. This way, you’re visible from many directions.

– It’s a good idea for pedestrians to attach the reflector to a moving part of the body, such as hands or legs.

So, what kind of reflector should you choose? According to Björkman, it doesn’t really matter as long as you use one. He compares skipping a reflector to driving without a seatbelt. With a reflector, a driver can spot you from up to four times farther away than without one. Statistics show that in nighttime pedestrian accidents, 75% of victims were not wearing a reflector.

– In recent years, it’s been encouraging to see more people wearing reflector harnesses on the streets.

Reflector harnesses and vests are praised for being quick to put on and visible from every direction. If you choose a dangling reflector, remember to attach it at knee height. That’s where it best catches car headlights.

A reflector that has been used for years should be replaced if the surface has faded. Also check the condition of reflectors sewn onto clothing. Fabric reflectors wear out more easily because they tend to fold.

Do you remember the rules?

A bicycle must have a bright white front light and a red rear light by law. In addition to lights, Björkman recommends that cyclists also wear a reflector harness or vest.

– It must be easy to distinguish what type of road user someone is in traffic.

The lighting rule naturally applies to e-scooter riders as well. Rental scooters come with built-in lights, but if you use your own, it’s your responsibility to ensure the lights work. Along with lights, Björkman reminds cyclists about proper crosswalk behavior. If the crosswalk is not separately marked for bicycles, the cyclist must yield to others.

A bicycle is a vehicle. And a crosswalk is primarily meant for pedestrians.

Drivers also need to be reminded of their duty to yield. At a pedestrian crossing, you must stop if a pedestrian is about to cross the road.

–There’s room for improvement here in Ostrobothnia, especially in Jakobstad and Vaasa, compared to the rest of Finland. Let’s take the time to stop and allow pedestrians to cross safely.

You should also avoid lingering near a crosswalk, as it makes it difficult for others to tell whether you intend to cross or not. For the sake of both safety and smooth traffic flow, it’s best to move predictably at all times and remember to signal when turning.

Everyone on the road is also responsible for staying aware of their surroundings. Many people wear headphones while walking or commuting, but it’s important not to become too absorbed in your own world.

– You can absolutely enjoy good music through your headphones, but you must stay aware of what’s happening around you.

This article is part of a regional campaign promoting health and wellbeing. It is organized in cooperation with the wellbeing services counties of Satakunta, Southwest Finland, and Ostrobothnia.