In Lannion, the reflective vest flop for school transport

 

Mandatory since the beginning of the year, high visibility vests are hardly worn by the 3,500 pupils and students who use the school transport network. LTC intends to react well: announcements are planned in the coming days.

 

Have you seen a student wearing an orange safety vest? Since the start of the year, middle and high school students using the school transport network managed by the Lannion-Trégor community must wear a high-visibility vest. And this, "throughout the journey from home to the establishment and vice versa, including inside the coach, throughout the school year, whatever the season or the visibility conditions: morning, noon and evening, even on a clear day". And beware of the recalcitrant, specified LTC in October 2019: "If the college or high school student does not have his safety vest, the driver will still let him get into the bus, but he will take his name and a warning letter. will be addressed to parents. In the event of a repeat offense, penalties are provided for".

 

The rules are clear. Alas, a year later, hardly anyone wears the famous waistcoat. "That's how we recognized the sixths at the start of the school year," says a mother. "They were the only ones to wear it". The habit has visibly been lost. It is enough to go for a walk near the places of teaching in Lannionnais to be convinced of it. In Park-Nevez, a young girl stands out among her friends. "It is my parents who force me to wear the vest." "The bus driver told us that given the sanitary context, it was already good if we put on the mask," continues his neighbor. The mask seems to be unanimous. For the waistcoat, that's another matter.

 

School transportation. Reflective vests for all students

When questioned, drivers announced that checks will take place at the start of the school year, after the All Saints holidays, and an awareness-raising operation. "We are currently preparing various actions", simply comments Carine Hue, elected in charge of mobility at LTC. Communication on the subject should take place in the coming days. "Nobody cares," laments Pierre Houssais, mayor of Kermaria-Soulard. "We wait until there is an accident". The city councilor had been particularly active in setting up these vests. "When we make a decision, we must give ourselves the means to apply it". And the mayor to appeal, in addition to LTC, to heads of establishments and elected officials to promote the measure.

 

Collective of Kerhuel. Fluorescent vests and pedestrian safety

In schools, we do not evade the question. But, proof if it were that the waistcoat is rarely worn, an interlocutor, member of the management of a Lannionnais establishment, admits: "I did not even know that the waistcoats had been distributed". "It's a real problem," recognizes Philippe Le Faou, director of the Bossuet high school. The problem is how to convince? ". "Young people have trouble ...", recognizes Jean-Bernard Goubert (Le-Dantec). "It is even more complicated with the health context and the mask". "What is the capacity of LTC to require the wearing of the vest?" resumes Philippe Le Faou. "All through the use of drivers who are not its employees. We met LTC at the start of the school year and share the observation that the vest is not worn. We remind parents of the need to wear it in our weekly letters. Even more in the open countryside. Back to school, we'll be in the middle of fall. It concerns us".

All first graders are given safety vests for the way to school

 

Verkehrswacht and ADAC equip all first graders in the state of Bremen with reflective vests with the help of sponsors.

 

The dark season is dangerous

It is particularly dangerous to be outside during the darker months of the year: drivers have trouble seeing pedestrians. But of course, the children still have to go to school. To protect the first graders, in particular, there has been a campaign for years to give high-visibility vests to school beginners in autumn.

 

Gewoba and Wulfes Foundation are helping

This year, Verkehrswacht and ADAC have again found enough sponsors for this: Gewoba and the Ursula Wulfes Foundation supported the purchase. The first vests were presented in the Goethe School on Friday. The appointment was so important to Michael Frost, head of the school department, that he was there too.

Arval bets on the function bike in long-term care

 

While Thursday, June 3 will mark International Cycling Day, Arval France has just confirmed its desire to orient its fleet towards this sustainable mobility solution. It must be said that, since the end of the first confinement, the little queen has lived up to her name since she now reigns on our axes with a lot of cycle paths and 30 zones. According to the survey “Bicycles and employers: what employees expect” of May 2020, it is not even less than 17% of the working people who are already thinking of using it as a priority means of transport to get to the office. A coherent ambition when we know that 60 to 65% of journeys made by car are less than 5 kilometers according to Ademe.

 

360 ° support

Aware of these changes in mentality when it comes to travel, the European leader in long-term vehicle rental now offers all its employees the possibility of equipping themselves with an electrically assisted bicycle in LLD. A conversion to the financing of which Arval, which recently carried out tests to promote the deployment of offers of function bikes with the Decathlon group, Azfalte, and Zenride, ensures that it is participating. Thus, the company plans to cover 70% of the total cost of a 36-month LLD VAE for employees who do not benefit from or waive the reimbursement of a public transport subscription. This rate will even increase to 100% of the total cost of the 6-route offer (car + bicycle) for employees who benefit from a company vehicle -  "provided that the employee takes a vehicle of the lower category than that initially planned", Specifies Arval.

 

For this range of long-term rental electric bicycles, Arval France offers three types of electrically assisted bicycles, namely the classic VAE, the cargo VAE, and the folding VAE. A safety kit consisting of a helmet, a reflective vest, and an approved anti-theft device is also included in the service package. As well as assistance in handling the bike, awareness of safety rules on the day of delivery, annual preventive maintenance to be carried out directly at Arval, as well as dedicated insurance. Wishing to take part in this evolution of the bicycle object on a company scale, the Arval France group wishes to extend this VAE in LLD offer to all of its customers with the ambition of a fleet of 15,000 bicycles rented in 2025. For good reason: "We are at the start of the French bicycle revolution and are committed at Arval to supporting these new forms of mobility", explains Ferréol Mayoly, CEO of Arval France.

How to ensure safety on the yacht?

A vacation on the water can quickly turn from a carefree moment into a dangerous situation. Disregarded safety rules in combination with risky behavior is a mixture that can lead to a tragedy, so it is always worth remembering the basic rules. In this article, we describe the most important recommendations and describe the equipment that should be on each vessel.

 

Safety on the yacht - basic rules

The basic, but unfortunately not always observed, rule of safety on the yacht is the presence of at least one person with the necessary qualifications and knowledge. There are financial penalties for sailing without a license, not to mention the dangers of inexperience. Another rule, unfortunately notoriously broken, is the absolute ban on drinking alcohol on board. Sunny weather and a gentle breeze sometimes encourage high-alcohol drinks, but it is necessary to wait with them until they arrive at the port - we guarantee that their taste does not change depending on the place of consumption.

 

Moving on a rocking yacht is not easy, especially for inexperienced people. Trips may result in painful bruises or even joint injuries, so avoid running, and when moving, it is worth following the principle of "one hand for yourself, the other for the ship". This means that you should always stick to a fixed piece of tooling. For stability reasons, it is also best to wear comfortable flat shoes instead of high heels or flip-flops.

 

Checking the yacht before departure - what should you pay attention to?

The first steps to guarantee safety on the yacht should take place in the port. First of all, you should check the condition of the rigging of the selected vessel and what other essential equipment, plating, and sails look like. The appropriate number of life jackets is also extremely important - there should be one more of them than the participants of the cruise. Before setting out, all people must learn the safety rules and wear appropriate vests.

 

Life jackets - are they really necessary?

Even if a person knows how to swim, it is not known how he will behave in a crisis of falling overboard. In addition to the panic itself or the unforeseen reaction of the body such as heat shock or contraction, there can also be dangerous vortices. For this reason, everyone should always wear a fastened life jacket with reflective tape.

 

Those who can swim well can afford a belay model. It only provides additional support in the event of being in the water, it is also less weight and stiff. Life jackets are designed to keep the survivor afloat and will work well for those who cannot swim.

 

Lifebuoy to help possible survivors

Falling overboard is not that rare. It happens not only during storms but also as a result of a slippery deck, tripping, or hitting a boom. Nothing calms you down in sudden contact with water like a lifebuoy thrown to help. Despite its name, it sometimes takes the shape of a horseshoe and is designed to keep the survivor afloat. Usually painted in red and white stripes, it is easily visible in any weather.

 

A life raft for extreme situations

In most cases, it probably won't be useful, which doesn't mean you should give it up. The life raft is useful when you need to suddenly leave the yacht in the middle of the lake. Interestingly, there are separate models for use at sea and inland waters. The latter are usually slightly smaller. A good life raft should have three air chambers (so if one is punctured, the other two will stay afloat), preferably eight sides, and systems such as collecting rainwater.

 

Taking care of the safety on the yacht is not such a difficult task, and it can pay off in the least foreseen moment. Water is an unpredictable element, so it is worth being prepared for literally every eventuality.

Farm shops offer reflective vests to make chickens visible

 As if it were a pawn, the chickens now have a new security feature that for a few days now can be found for sale in some farm stores. A reflective vest that has a reflective top layer and adhesive velcro to hold them.

 

Its effectiveness has supporters and also detractors for being an animal that is usually cornered. The fact of giving it visibility is fine but raises doubts about the reaction of predators such as the fox. With a price close to 8 euros, in an agricultural store in Ponte Caldelas have already received calls interested in this curious complement.

Many drivers could be wrong. A new duty soon

 

Although it is commonly believed that this item is mandatory, many drivers still do not have it in their cars. Soon there will be a provision in the law that will change this. Check what will need to be carried in each trunk.

 

First aid kit

Contrary to popular belief, the first aid kit is not required equipment in a car. However, even most drivers who think otherwise do not pay much attention to it. This is a big mistake. Because how to help when we don't have basic supplies at hand? Aleksander Miszalski, a member of the Civic Coalition, concerned about the lack of imagination of drivers in this matter, issued an interpellation on the establishment of a first aid kit as a mandatory element of vehicle equipment.

 

Outdated regulations

For many years, there have been no major changes in the regulations regarding the rescue accessory, necessary in road transport. Currently, drivers are required to have a fire extinguisher and a warning triangle. The law also imposes an obligation on every citizen to help in an emergency. But has anyone ever thought about what exactly we should give it since there are still cars on the roads without first aid kits? MP Miszalski justifies his request, inter alia, the fact that we are unfavorable compared to other countries, most of which have imposed on their citizens the need to equip a vehicle with a kit for pre-medical aid.

 

You don't have to wait

Although there is no such obligation, you can equip the car with a first aid kit now. In automotive stores and supermarkets, ready-made kits with the required refill are sold. It is worth verifying their use-by date every few months. Also, remember to have your fire extinguisher checked. In addition, there should also be a reflective vest in the trunk, which will ensure your safety when, for example, during a night trip you change a hole in the wheel.

 

What must the first aid kit contain?

There are no universal guidelines on this matter, but it is assumed that each kit should contain at least:

- first aid instruction,

- sterile dressings, gauze, bandages, plasters with and without dressings,

- elastic band,

- wound disinfectant,

- thermal blanket,

- triangular scarf,

- safety pins and scissors,

- mask for non-contact artificial respiration.

ROAD SAFETY: REFLECTION OF REFLECTIVE VESTS AT THE ASRSM ASSOCIATION

 

On Wednesday, May 28, 2021, the SXM Road Safety Association organized a day dedicated to road safety, for the benefit of the youth of Quartier d'Orléans.

 

The purpose of the association is to supervise and support young people from school in their adult life, to promote social ties as well as the development of civic values ​​through school projects, to fight against dropping out of school, the prevention of delinquency, the problems of integration and professional integration.

 

This Wednesday, 70 children and adolescents, aged 6 to 16, benefited from road safety awareness including:

 

Knowledge of the highway code adapted to 06/11 years and 12/16 years,

road track,

fight against addictions (alcohol and drugs),

introduction to training for the Road Safety Certificate (driving a scooter) using a two-wheel simulator and expert advice from the Saint-Martin firefighters.

 

The associations of Quartier Orléans, the college of Quartier Orléans, SEMSAMAR, the family protection brigade (National Gendarmerie), as well as the firefighters of Saint-Martin made a strong contribution to this event.

 

On this occasion, an operation to hand over reflective vests to participants was carried out during this day. The Prefecture of Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélémy offered some 30 reflective vests, thus allowing children and adolescents to be more visible on the axes of Saint-Martin.

 

Good visibility for the driver in traffic is essential. This is supervised to guarantee its safety, that of its passengers and other road users. Several “road safety” days are scheduled by ASR SXM. Other distributions of reflective vests will be organized in this context.

Listed the contents of the trunk to avoid a fine

 

Each driver must have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, yellow reflective vest, and warning triangle in the trunk of the car. They will help not only avoid fines but also save lives if necessary. It is very important to ensure that the expiration date of the first aid kit and fire extinguisher has not expired.

 

Automotive expert Yegor Vasiliev told the agency of economic news "Prime" about it. He also advised me to personally check whether the fire extinguisher is fully charged. According to the expert, you cannot save on them. Cheap devices are almost ineffective because they have little or no extinguishing agent. In general, it is better to have two fire extinguishers in the car just in case.

 

Vasiliev suggested that the drivers immediately, as soon as they decided to get out of the car in case of a breakdown, put on a reflective vest and put up an emergency stop sign.

 

"It will make you much more visible and increase your safety level. When the problem is resolved, be sure to take the warning triangle with you. Often motorists forget them on the road, misleading the rest of the traffic participants," the expert said.

 

Vasiliev also advised, in addition to the mandatory means, to have in the car a tow rope, a flashlight, a pump, a glass breaker, and a minimum set of tools.

 

In November 2020, the Ministry of Health allowed Russian drivers to independently complete a car first aid kit by a special list of the department.

Do you know what a retro-reflector is?

 

Despite the strangeness of the word, it is a common element in a car's lighting system that serves to signal its presence and dimensions.

 

When we are behind the wheel, over 90% of the information we receive about what is happening on the road comes to us through our eyes, and to perform most of the maneuvers we rely on sight. It is therefore clear the importance of seeing… and of being seen. This is where the car's lighting system comes in, made up of several elements, some of which are somewhat unknown: the DGT clarifies what a retro-reflector is and what it is used for.

 

Although this is a strange word, the truth is that it is a component that is common to all vehicles. A reflector is a signaling element that reflects the light of an external light source, that is to say, that they come into action when another vehicle lights upon us. So it works like the reflective vest.

 

What is a retro-reflector used for?

Its function, according to the General Directorate of Traffic, is to indicate the presence of the car in addition to helping to distinguish and recognize its dimensions using this reflection of light which comes from an independent source.

 

Are they compulsory? Yes. In the case of cars, they must have four reds on the back. However, some models complement them with others located on the front or side. It should be taken into account that reflective license plates, additional panels (such as contour marking), or light beacons like the V-16 are not considered reflectors.

 

It's not exclusive to cars

Although we have talked about cars, reflectors are mandatory on all types of vehicles. the motorcycles and mopeds must have a non-triangular redback: if there is one, it must be located and if there are two, it must be symmetrical. Optionally, they can carry one or two on each side.

 

the bike they must integrate at the back: it must be red and not triangular. Finally, the vehicles for the transport of goods and people They must have two non-triangular redbacks. The yellow sides will only be mandatory on trailers and vehicles over six meters in length.

Police officers remind cyclists of the basic rules of road traffic

 

In the spring and summer seasons, the bicycle is the most popular means of transport. For some, it is a form of spending free time, while others use it to commute to work. For safety to be maintained, one should remember the basic principles of using roads by cyclists, as well as the mutual friendliness of all road users.

 

"Cyclists' safety is influenced by many factors, ranging from the time of day and weather conditions. However, the most important thing is the behavior of the cyclists themselves, above all respecting the applicable rules and regulations of the road and the ability to anticipate dangerous situations. The behavior of other road users towards cyclists is equally important," - says the young asp. Patrycja Kaszuba, press officer of the KPP in Brzeg.

The policewoman also reminds you of a few basic rules:

 

"Cyclists should use a cycle path, and if there is no one, use a road (as close to the right edge as possible). Cyclists riding on pavements create many dangerous situations for pedestrians, so let's respect the law and leave the pavement to pedestrians - this is a place where they should feel safe. A vehicle that is overtaking a cyclist is required to keep a distance of at least 1 m from it. A cyclist who wants to use a pedestrian crossing should stop in front of it and cross the road, it is unacceptable to cross the crossing," explains Patrycja Kaszuba.

It should be added that there are also a few exceptions when a cyclist may use the pavement:

 

- weather conditions threaten his safety on the road (strong wind blows, fog, heavy rain, or snowfall),

- takes care of a child up to 10 years old, who he is cycling,

- the width of the sidewalk along the road, on which traffic is allowed at a speed of more than 50 km / h, is at least 2 meters and there is no separate path for bicycles and a lane for bicycles.

 

The bicycle traffic regulations do not require the use of protective helmets and reflective elements. However, it should be taken into account that the helmet protects the head, which is the part of the body most exposed to injuries, while the reflective vest, reflective harness, or bands make it easier for the rider to see the cyclist, especially in difficult weather conditions.

It is also worth making sure that our two-wheeler is well-equipped and functional.

New fines have been introduced for drivers for the lack of special things

 

The traffic police warn that from 2021, inspectors will check the presence of four items in the trunk, without which a fine will be issued, reports IA DEITA.RU.

 

These new rules apply to all drivers in all regions of the Russian Federation. A first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, as well as an emergency stop sign, and, of course, a reflective vest (a recent change in legislation) should always be kept in the trunk.

 

The first aid kit and fire extinguisher must not expire, otherwise, it is a separate fine.

 

Also, from this year, drivers have the right to independently purchase and complete the first-aid kit from various components, and not purchase a ready-made kit.

 

Earlier, the authorities of Primorye reminded motorists that they can (and should) undergo technical inspection under the new rules, which will take effect from October 1 this year.

With this rain gear for your bike you are safe and dry on the road

 

To be safe on the road as a cyclist even in rain and wet in the changeable spring and to stay dry, the right rain gear for the bike is essential. We show sensible rain protection from clothing to mudguards.

 

"There is no such thing as bad weather, there is only wrong clothing," they say. Especially on the bike, where you cannot protect yourself with an umbrella when it rains, it is important to have the right equipment. However, this is not limited to rainwear, the bike should also be properly equipped. We show you which rain gear makes sense for your bike to always be safe and dry on the road.

 

Rain gear for the bike: the right clothing from head to toe

If you want to cycle from A to B even in bad weather, you should have the appropriate clothing with you.

 

Practical rain poncho

The rain poncho for the bike offers comfortable all-around protection from head to knee. According to the manufacturer Hock, it is 100 percent waterproof. The reflective elements and the side viewing windows in the hood, which do not restrict your view, ensure safety. The poncho is also cut particularly wide in the handlebar area, which prevents blockages when steering and accidents.

 

The low weight, the sewn-in handles at handlebar height, and the hip strap with which the rain cape can be individually and precisely attached to the body are practical. So the poncho doesn't flutter in the wind while driving. Another plus is the front inner pocket, in which a smartphone and keys can be stowed. If it is dry, it can also serve as a space-saving storage bag for rain protection.

 

Comfortable rain jackets

Instead of a rain poncho, you can also use weatherproof functional jackets as practical rainwear. These have the advantage that they can also be worn for other outdoor activities.

 

The Jack Wolfskin cycling jackets are, however, perfectly designed for cyclists: they are cut a little longer at the back so that the back is completely covered even when cycling leaning forward. In addition, the hood is big enough that the bicycle helmet can fit underneath. Reflective tape details ensure better visibility.

 

The zippered jackets are not only waterproof but also breathable. So you don't break a sweat even when driving faster. The Atlas Tour JKT rain jacket by Jack Wolfskin for women and men is available in different colors. If you don't like them, you can read in this article about functional jackets which models were able to score points at Stiftung Warentest and are therefore also recommended.

 

Comfortable rain pants

If you don't wear a rain poncho and prefer to wear a rain jacket, you have to protect your legs for cycling, otherwise, your thighs, in particular, will get wet. Rain pants are simply pulled over normal clothing and protect them. They are therefore particularly light and of course also breathable.

 

According to the manufacturer, the women's model from Regatta is permanently water-repellent. It scores with an elastic waistband and sealed seams. The breathable trousers can also be easily cleaned in the washing machine. The only drawback of these rain pants: You have to do without reflectors.

 

The Vaude model for men, on the other hand, has reflective elements for better visibility. These rain pants are also waterproof, windproof, and breathable. It is also environmentally friendly and made from sustainable materials.

 

Overshoes for dry feet

Anyone who regularly travels by bike knows that when it rains you not only get wet from above, but also from splashing water from the street or other road users. Therefore, weatherproof jackets or rain ponchos are not enough to get through the traffic dry. Feet in particular remain unprotected even when wearing a rain poncho.

 

The practical overshoes from Vaude provide a remedy: Strip them over the shoes to keep feet dry and, thanks to their light color and reflectors, ensure additional safety. They completely cover the shoe and ankle so that rainwater has no chance.

 

Alternatively, you can of course use rain pants that protect your shoes at the same time. This also has the advantage that you have to carry less rain gear with you.

 

Rain cover for the bicycle helmet

In the broadest sense, rainwear also includes a helmet cover: If you wear a helmet, which we recommend to all cyclists, you can protect it, for example, with the waterproof cover from BTR. This keeps your head dry and you are more visible thanks to the reflectors. The cover is waterproof, windproof, breathable, and available in numerous colors. Thanks to the cord, it can be adapted to any bicycle helmet so that it does not slip.

 

Rain gear for the bike: matching luggage

If you cycle to work, you have to transport your laptop or documents, for example. But also privately you almost always have your smartphone, keys, and other everyday items with you. To store these safely and, above all, dry, even in rainy weather, waterproof bags or backpacks are essential for cyclists.

 

How to properly choose bicycle panniers?

 

When we enter a higher level of cycling tourism, we also want to increase comfort while riding. One of the pieces of equipment that have a significant impact on this aspect of the journey is bicycle panniers. How to choose the right model? Here are some tips to help you make the right choice.

 

On a trip or to the city?

The first thing we should determine is the purpose of the pannier. Another pannier will work in the city, where it will be used to transport a laptop and documents or other small items. Such a model does not have to offer a lot of space. Its appearance and modern design will be much more important. Yet another bicycle panniers will prove themselves during a bicycle trip. The one that we want to take on a distant journey must have more specialized parameters. A suitable model, intended for cycling tourism, should be, above all, waterproof.

 

Bicycle pannier capacity

The pannier that we will have with us when moving around the city does not have to be large. Bicycle panniers with a total capacity of 30 liters will be optimal. A long trip on a two-wheeler requires us to take more things, which is associated with the need to increase the luggage space. The minimum capacity of panniers, in this case, is 50 liters. Currently, there are many models with much larger dimensions on the market, but the Ortlieb brand remains unsurpassed in this competition, which was one of the first to introduce panniers with a total capacity of 70 liters! However, if we no longer have smaller panniers and we do not want to buy another set, we can always buy additional pockets and bags.

 

Where to install bicycle bags?

Where we install our panniers is important. The appropriate distribution of the weight of the luggage contributes to the optimal balance of the bike. Which, in turn, translates into its maneuverability and safety while driving. For this reason, with heavier luggage, you should consider having two sets of panniers - one for the front and one for the back of the bike. A load on the rear wheel only could lead to its overload and damage. To avoid serious complications on the route, even at the planning stage, we should pay special attention to weight distribution.

 

Watertightness and durability of the bicycle pannier

The best models are sewn from durable and damage-resistant materials, such as Cordura or polyester. In both cases, the manufacturers additionally coat the fabrics with a PVC layer, which guarantees complete waterproofing. This effect is further enhanced by the use of glued seam technology. The method of closing the pannier also affects its water resistance. Proven and at the same time, the most popular closing systems are hood and roll-up. Both solutions allow easy access to the contents and guarantee full waterproofness. If our choice is a model that meets all the above-mentioned requirements, we will be 100% sure that our equipment will not get wet. This is all the more important because water-soaked equipment noticeably increases its weight,

 

What else should you pay attention to?

Another point to keep in mind when choosing the right model is how to assemble and disassemble it. The best bicycle panniers have mounting systems refined in every detail, even the smallest ones, and enable the pannier to be attached with one movement. In addition, our pannier should have reflective tape elements that will increase visibility on the trail during cloudy days or when it gets dark. Many benefits also come from having models equipped with transport handles, allowing you to easily transport the pannier after the ride. A long journey increases the number of essentials, which in turn also increases the volume of luggage. In such a situation, the presence of compression belts, which will reduce its volume, may prove invaluable.

 

Extra space - bicycle bags

A great alternative to another, large panniers are bicycle bags, which are perfect as a kind of "hand luggage". The most popular models are mounted on the steering wheel. The handlebar bag allows quick and direct access to the essentials. Inside such a bag you will find accessories such as a phone, camera, power bank, wallet, first aid kit ... that is, everything that is most important during a trip and that it is always good to have at your fingertips. In addition, a map holder can be mounted on the flap of the bicycle bag, which will serve as waterproof navigation. Of course, on the tourist market, there are also other, equally practical models, e.g. mounted on a frame or placed under the saddle.

 

How to pack the equipment?

In the case of the simplest solution, i.e. a set of panniers mounted on the rear part of the bike, the matter is very simple. You just need to remember the appropriate division of equipment into categories. One pannier should contain only things such as clothing, cosmetics, and a towel. The best solution will also be to put a light sweatshirt or a raincoat on the top so that in case of bad weather you can quickly use the additional cover. The second sajwa should be used as a place to store camping equipment - snacks, freeze-dried food, burner, and tourist dishes. If you are also planning to sleep in the wild, it is worth having a transport bag to protect the tent, sleeping bags, and mats against rain.

Are you going by bike or scooter? Backpacks with LED signal lights

 

Many people daily use their bicycles or electric scooter to go to work or study. And it is that in recent years, we have seen how urban mobility has been changing. More and more people prefer to use this type of transport and leave their car parked, as well as not having to use public transport.

 

This has meant that in many of the streets of the main cities, we find more and more people who travel by bicycle or electric scooter. The accidents in which this type of means of transport has been involved have been many in recent years, which has made the DGT is establishing new rules in the use of them.

 

Although some of the causes of these accidents are the recklessness of the drivers themselves, the lack of signage is another major problem. Although on bicycles it is somewhat easier to indicate our maneuvers with the arm, with the scooter it is somewhat more complicated, for that reason, we are going to show below some models of backpacks with LED lights to signal our maneuvers and that other drivers can know what we will do in advance.

 

When buying one of these backpacks with the signaling of maneuvers through LED lights, it is important to take into account several aspects. One of them is its capacity, here we will have to think about our needs, if we are one of those who need to carry many things in our backpack, such as a laptop, work clothes, etc. On the other hand, it is important to check if it has other reflective material elements since this will help us to be much more visible when we are driving at night.

 

Of course, if the fabric is waterproof, we will avoid that any dip while we move, which can wet everything that we carry inside. The capacity of its battery is also another important piece of information since we need sufficient autonomy so that we can signal our maneuvers throughout our journey.

 

Another option to take into account is that it has a remote control, a control that we can attach to the handlebars of our bicycle or scooter and from which we can control each of the signs that appear on the backpack itself. It is also interesting to check the size of the signals, the number of LEDs, etc.

 

Backpacks with LED signage

Backpack with a 35-liter capacity that incorporates a USB charger and is made of high-quality, water-resistant, and highly durable nylon. The built-in battery offers an autonomy of up to 12 hours and offers the possibility of displaying three LED signals to indicate a left turn, right turn, and danger signal when we go by bicycle or scooter. It also has other reflective elements so that we can be seen on the road without any problem.

 

Backpack with an executive design measuring 48 × 38 cm, padded straps for maximum comfort, and a remote control function with built-in control to be placed on the handlebar of the bike or scooter. In this way, from the command itself, we can indicate the signals that will be displayed on the backpack through its panel of LED lights.

Darkness: "50 traffic accidents avoidable"

 

According to the police, up to 50 serious accidents with pedestrians in Salzburg could be avoided every year if people had dressed in lighter colors or even wore a safety vest. Even a small reflector on clothing can be seen from 150 meters away.

 

Seen or not seen - this question can make the difference between life and death on the road in the cold season when the days are short and the nights long. It was not until mid-November that a dark-clad pensioner was overlooked by a moped driver and fatally injured in the process.

 

According to the Salzburg traffic police, between 30 and 50 accidents per year could be avoided with appropriate clothing and behavior that is adapted to the dark. "Serious accidents don't always happen, but there are many near-accidents and evasive maneuvers, which in turn lead to accidents. The decisive factor for me is that these accidents could be avoided very easily if one behaved accordingly," says Friedrich Schmidhuber from the Salzburg traffic police.

 

Dressed in dark: visible up to 25 meters away

According to traffic experts, pedestrians dressed in dark clothes can be seen up to a maximum of 25 meters in time at night. Light-colored clothing or neon colors almost double this distance, but only with reflective material are passers-by up to 140 meters visible.

 

Police: Older people have some catching up to do

While this has worked for young people for years, adults have some catching up to do here. "Older people, in particular, underestimate this risk massively. Also, dark clothing is often worn, which makes the situation even worse," says Schmidhuber. Often pedestrians would not be aware of the fact that outside a local area there is a regulation to use the left side of the street or, if available, the banquet.

 

Tip: light-colored clothing, safety vests, warning tapes

According to the police, it would be easy to be seen by drivers even in the dark. The police recommend consciously wearing light-colored clothing during the dark months and putting reflective safety vests or reflective tapes on the upper arms.

Do you like riding a bike? Remember about safety

 With the increase in temperature and the arrival of sunny days, more and more cyclists appear on the roads of the Ostrów district.

 

The bicycle is an economical means of transport that has a good impact on our health. Due to the spring weather, more cyclists appear on the roads. Therefore, policemen from the KPP Road Traffic Department in Ostrów Mazowiecka, out of concern for the health and life of two-wheelers, started an action plan called My bike, my life, aimed at the safety of cyclists on April 1. Police officers will pay attention to the behavior of cyclists on the road and car drivers towards the drivers of two-wheelers.

 

The officers remind you of the proper equipment of the two-wheeler and the traffic regulations for cyclists.

 

Before leaving, remember to check the technical condition of the bike, e.g. lighting, brakes, and tire condition. A reflective vest will additionally mark our presence on the road. A cyclist should use a cycle path, and in its absence - on the right side of the road.

 

We should also remember that it is forbidden to drive on the road next to another road user - unless it does not obstruct the traffic of others or endanger the safety of other road users. Moreover, the use of the pavement or footpath by a bicycle rider is allowed only if: an adult takes care of a child under 10 years of age who rides a bicycle, the width of the sidewalk along the road on which vehicle traffic is allowed at a speed greater than 50 km / h is min. 2 m and there is no separate road for bicycles, a bicycle lane or the weather threatens the cyclist's safety on the road (snowfall, wind, downpour, black ice, dense fog) - then the bicycle driver gives way to pedestrians and is particularly careful.

 

Remember that it is forbidden to ride a bicycle: on highways and expressways, after a pedestrian crossing (you need to get off the bike and carry a two-wheeled vehicle), on the road - if there is a designated bicycle path or there is a shoulder, without holding min. 1 hand on the steering wheel and feet on the pedals.

 

Moreover, a person riding a bicycle must not "cling to a vehicle", tow another cyclist or a person on roller skates or a skateboard, transport another person on a single bicycle, talk on the phone, hold it in their hand, ride after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.

 

Children up to 7 years of age can be transported in a special seat or a special trailer pulled by a bicycle. Children over 10 years of age can apply for a bicycle card authorizing them to cycle on a public road. Parents who allow their children to cycle on the street without a bicycle license show extreme irresponsibility for their health and even life.

 

Recently, many bicycle paths have been created in Ostrów Mazowiecka. The police remind you that according to the road markings, they are driven on the right-hand side. Remember that if a bicycle path crosses the road, the same rule applies as on a pedestrian crossing, i.e. a cyclist is obliged to stop before entering, and only when he is sure that the car is not approaching can he pass. A cyclist has priority only when he is on the crossing.

 

Let's remember the basic rules of the road - so that each trip ends with a safe return home and nice memories.

Mandatory airbag vest? Spanish motorcyclists don't want airbags

 

We wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle. But would you be equally cheerful if it was compulsory to wear an airbag vest?

 

Mandatory vests are trying to push through the Directorate General for Road Traffic in Spain. The initiative is also supported by Asociación Nacional de Empresas del Sector de Dos Ruedas (Anesdor), an association of companies operating in the two-wheeled automotive sector, and even the personal support of Pere Navarro, president of Dorna, the company responsible for the preparation of the World Motorcycle Championship. In short, the matter is serious.  

 

The campaign has also been going on for weeks, accompanied by the hashtag #PonteUnAirbag. The campaign aims to raise the awareness of motorcycle and moped users about the benefits of wearing a vest or an airbag jacket.

 

What arguments do the vest advocates use? Anesdor's Secretary-General José María Riaño stressed the "great importance" of the airbag for motorcyclists "which has great potential to reduce injuries in the event of an accident".

 

Also, studies by Real Automóvil Club de España (RACE) have been published, which confirm the effectiveness, in a crash test, of three different types of airbags for motorcyclists. In all three cases, the airbag was deployed before the dummy hit the vehicle (in less than 120 milliseconds).

 

But it is one thing to consciously, freely choose a vest, and another order and regulation, the non-observance of which will result in punishing motorcyclists by law enforcement agencies. In opposition to the narrative of pillow supporters, Asociación Mutua Motera (AMM) - a Spanish organization of motorcyclists, surveyed to investigate the mood of two-wheelers about vests.

 

It turned out that only slightly more than 29% of respondents considered that vests with pillows should be mandatory. As many as 65% of respondents opted for a free choice and do not want any compulsion to wear special clothing. Just over 2.5 thousand people participated in the study. motorcyclists.

 

Why is the campaign and debate about airbags in Spain important to us? Because the solution that will eventually be adopted by the local authorities may result in similar ideas in other EU countries. And yet we know very well how much the government loves regulations, orders, and bans, especially if it can generously impose new penalties on them in the fines of mandates.

 

Or maybe life and health are more important than our whim? Are you willing to accept the obligation to use airbag jackets and safety vests or not? Just a reasonable argument, please.

ONLY 3 WEEKS LEFT TO BENEFIT FROM THE "BICYCLE BOOST"

 

The reduction of € 50 (excluding taxes) applies to both the replacement of parts and the cost of labor in the network of partner establishments.

 

If you have not yet had your bike repaired thanks to the aid of 50 € (excluding taxes) put in place at the exit of the first confinement, you only have 3 weeks left to benefit from it. This subsidy, called the "bicycle boost", had been extended until March 31, 2021, in a context where the government still wishes to encourage the French to choose the bicycle for their trips.

 

For what repairs?

The reduction applies to both the replacement of parts and the cost of labor in the network of partner establishments. All repair and even self-repair operations in a referenced workshop are eligible as long as they allow your bike to run in complete safety: tire change, brake repair, chain or cable change. derailleur ... The package does not include safety accessories such as locks, reflective vests, or helmets. Regarding lighting, it is eligible only if it is integral with the bike, that is to say, which cannot be removed, such as a dynamo lamp for example.

 

50 € excluding taxes

You can only benefit from this reduction once per bike. Your identity as well as the identification of the bicycle (make, model, marking, serial number, and photo) will be verified. If the repair fee is less than € 50 excluding tax, only the remaining VAT will be charged to you. If the repair flat rate is greater than € 50 excluding tax, a reduction of € 50 will be applied to your invoice.

Giant teddy bears on cars to save lives

 

At a time when car manufacturers are developing more and more semi-autonomous driving systems, American researchers at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have put them to the test. to find out if they help drivers be more vigilant with teddy bears.

 

The latest crash test results from the Institute for Highway Safety show cars are safer than ever thanks to modern technology. Of the 2021 novelties that were tested last month, 49 won the highest "Top Safety Pick +" award in the United States. We're used to seeing cars get sprayed by the IIHS in a crash test, but the organization conducted an unusual safety experiment to test how a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving technology such as the Pilot Tesla's automatic device can affect the driver's awareness and perception of his surroundings.

 

Level 2 systems can control acceleration, braking, steering, and speed in certain scenarios, but they still require the driver to be vigilant and intervene when necessary. With technology taking over the car, some drivers have a harder time concentrating on the road, resulting in several fatal crashes.

 

Further testing?

To check all this out, the IIHS strapped a giant teddy bear clad in a reflective vest (we can't say yellow vest anymore) to the back of a car and compared the reactions of three different groups of drivers to see if they noticed it. Strange as a study on automobile safety. "There are several lab methods to measure situational awareness, but they don't work very well on the road," said Alexandra Mueller, a researcher at IIHS. "The giant teddy bear in the back of the vehicle helps us objectively measure the driver's attention that is relevant to driving and does not interfere with how that person drives normally."

 

To test their attention when using semi-autonomous technology, 31 people drove a 2019 Mercedes-Benz C300-Class for about an hour on a stretch of motorway. A group of drivers regularly using Level 2 drove with semi-autonomous driving assistance enabled. Another group who had little to no experience with these aids also drove with this device on, while another group who were not familiar with the technology drove the Mercedes with the technology turned off.

 

What assessment?

During the ride, a car with the pink teddy bear strapped to the back passed each driver three times and stayed in front for about 30 seconds. The cameras then recorded the reaction of the drivers. Each driver was then asked if he noticed anything unusual. If the answer was yes, they were asked how many times they had seen the bear.

 

The IIHS has found that twice as many people who don't regularly use Level 2 stand-alone technology haven't noticed the bear. In contrast, almost all of the drivers who regularly use the technology and used it during the test saw the bear. This group was also more likely to correctly identify the number of times it appeared.

 

Of course, the test sample was very small, so the study is inconclusive, but the IIHS believes the results show that "partially automated driving systems have the potential to improve situational awareness. drivers" once the driver has become accustomed to the technology. Drivers less experienced in the use of autonomous technology "may have more difficulty in keeping up with what is going on around them when using technology as yet unknown".

BG BAU provides information on correct warning clothing in winter

 

Accident-free work has a lot to do with good visibility. Especially in the dark season, poor visibility, fog, or rain on construction sites make it difficult to recognize people. Luminous and reflective warning clothing provides support. The DIN standard for high-visibility clothing (DIN EN ISO 20471) provides information on how it must be designed and what to watch out for. The trade association for the construction industry (BG BAU) gives advice on the right high-visibility clothing to get through the winter safely and healthily.

 

Contrast and reflection are the two keywords for optimal visibility. The better the clothing can stand out from the background, the more striking the appearance. "Wearing dark clothes at night can have fatal consequences. People are simply swallowed up in the dark," says Bernhard Arenz, head of the main prevention department at BG BAU. This means that road users, for example, can only be recognized by road users in the last few meters. Light-colored clothing can be seen from a distance of up to 40 meters, retro-reflective clothing from a distance of up to 150 meters.

 

In general, warning clothing should be worn wherever it is necessary to recognize people at an early stage. This is especially true when working in the area of ​​public road traffic, on tracks, and of course for all construction sites with construction machinery or vehicle traffic. Employees can easily be overlooked when, for example, wheel loaders, excavators, and cranes are used and the driver's view is restricted. Therefore, the right high-visibility clothing is vital during the day too.

 

Which high visibility clothing is right?

First of all, the hazards at the respective location must be assessed, including the volume of traffic, lighting conditions, and the expected weather during the activity. The procurement of high-visibility clothing should be determined based on the risk assessment. The decisive standard for this is DIN EN ISO 20471. This divides high-visibility clothing into three different performance classes. "The following applies: the greater the risk to employees, the higher the required class. The higher the class, the larger the fluorescent and reflective surfaces," explains Arenz.

 

Class 3 warning clothing is to be used for work in the dark. This means that more than 80cm² of the surface must be covered with fluorescent material, more than 20cm² with reflective material. At the same time, the reflective materials must be processed in such a way that the contour of the person can be recognized from the reflection alone. The minimum requirements of class 3 can also be achieved by clothing combinations (e.g. jacket and trousers) - but only if the high-visibility clothing covers the trunk and has at least either sleeves or long trouser legs with retro-reflective stripes.

 

According to DIN EN ISO 20471, fluorescent surfaces may generally be yellow, orange-red, or red. For employees in certain areas, however, there are restrictions, for example for employees in the garbage collection and road work including road winter service: "According to the administrative regulations for road traffic regulations, they are only allowed to wear fluorescent orange-red or yellow warning clothing. In the guidelines for securing workplaces on roads (RSA), only fluorescent orange-red is permitted," says Arenz.

 

What other differences are there between the performance classes? How is the high visibility clothing properly cared for? How many and which safety vests must be available in vehicles? The BAU Portal, the specialist magazine of BG BAU, provides a current overview and further information on the topic of high-visibility clothing in its current web magazine.

"Be an Example". The National Police Day of Reflectors is behind us

 October 1 is the National Police Day of Reflections, which is part of the informational and educational campaign "Be an Example" - be visible !. That is why, especially on this day, the traffic policemen from the Łęczyca headquarters handed out and encouraged pedestrians to wear reflective elements. All this for the sake of the safety of unprotected road users.

 

From the early hours of the morning, traffic policemen from the Łęczyca headquarters joined the National Police Day of Reflectors. Equipped with reflective bands, they handed them to unprotected road users for the sake of their safety. Each of the passers-by received such an element and a lesson on how to use it properly. The aim of the action is primarily to remind and make pedestrians aware of the need to use reflective elements and to encourage as many "unprotected" elements as possible to use such elements. Police officers emphasized that reflectors should be used not only after dark outside built-up areas but also in built-up areas on unlit or poorly lit sections of roads. Wearing reflectors is of great importance in the fall and winter. Early dusk, dark mornings, mists, rainfall is not conducive to the safety of pedestrians.

 

"A reflective vest with reflective fabric, a key ring, a headband will make a pedestrian moving along a dimly lit road more visible to an oncoming car. This will allow the driver to react earlier and thus avoid a collision. Therefore, we should remember that the worn reflector should be visible to drivers of cars coming from both directions," we read on the KPP website.

 

According to Polish law, every pedestrian walking on the road from dusk to dawn outside the built-up area is obliged to use reflective elements in a way visible to other road users.

In Lviv, patrolmen staged action and handed out reflective vests to pedestrians and drivers

 

In Lviv, patrol officers handed out reflective vests to pedestrians and drivers. Such an action was staged on the Kiev-Chop highway - on the site where accidents most often occur.

 

Pedestrians were delighted with the gift - they will be visible in the vest in the headlights. But the drivers were scared at first because they thought that they were being stopped for a violation, and when they found out that the police wanted to give reflective vests, they were happy about such an initiative. Special clothing accessories to be visible in the dark are inexpensive and neglected by many pedestrians, police say. And they add - vests can be obtained free of charge at stationary posts.

 

"Last year, there were 24 traffic accidents here, 9 people were injured, and one person died. This is a high figure for such a short section of the road. The main reason is the inattention of pedestrians," said the inspector of the patrol police Maria Grima.

Traffic watch calls for caution with snow and ice

 

In icy temperatures and snow, the Brandenburg traffic watch has called for particular caution on the streets. "Everyone should show responsibility towards other road users in this weather and drive considerately," said President Jörg Vogelsänger on Wednesday of the German press agency. Road users are always at risk. In the current winter weather, however, the risk is greatest.

 

If possible, the car and bike should be left behind. The early darkness would come to snow-covered and smooth paths. Reflective tapes on clothing would help to be seen better.

 

The road clearance has done a lot of work in the past few days and has already saved lives, said Vogelsänger. Bit by bit, the paths would now become freer if, as announced, large amounts of fresh snow did not materialize.

 

Movement controls in Blansko

 

Reflective vests and red slapper. Stop, drive to the curb. Drivers in Blansko, as in other regions, have been on police patrols in many places since Monday morning. They check that drivers and passengers comply with government regulations on restrictions on movement outside their place of residence associated with the never-ending coronavirus epidemic. One of the patrols moves between the villages of Lipůvka and Lažany on the busiest route in the district, the road I / 43.

 

In Lažany , for example , a patrol builds Lukáš Skalník from the village of Bystré u Poličky from the Pardubice region in the morning. He's fine. "On Sunday evening, I printed out a form on the way to work on the Internet and this morning they confirmed it to me at work. Now I am returning home from Modřice. I went through the check without any problems, "he says through a narrowed window and with a respirator on Skalník's face.

 

A few hundred meters away from a police patrol arrived a moment later at Lažanská store food Tomas Havelka. He does not need any confirmation from the employer or a solemn declaration about the reason for his trip. It's local. "My wife has already told me that she saw the policemen at the end of Lažany. I'm local, so I don't need a file due to limited movement. I'm just a short walk from the house to the shop. But I'm going to have to study it because even when I'm retired, I earn extra money as a roofer. And we just have an order in the Břeclav region, so I'll see how it turns out, "the pensioner tells Deník.

 

He adds that restrictions on police movement and control are in place given the current situation with the coronavirus epidemic. At the same time, he hopes that everything will calm down soon and return to normal. "My wife and I are not very affected by the restriction of movement yet, but we go to a supermarket in Kurim for larger purchases, for example. It is about seven kilometers from Lažany, but already a different district. So either we will have to go to Blansko, which is about fifteen kilometers, or buy basic food from us, "the man concludes.

 

According to a police patrol, drivers between Lipůvka and Lažany have the necessary documents in order since Monday morning. They have been in the field since five o'clock in the morning. "We stopped dozens of cars during random checks. So far, everything has been fine. Drivers and passengers have the necessary documents with them and follow government regulations. We did not have to resolve any conflict. They have a confirmation of the business trip from the employer in paper form and electronically on mobile phones, "says one of the traffic police officers.

 

According to him, possible shortcomings and omissions are still being resolved by agreement today. Confirmation from the employer, a copy of the agreement on the performance of work and respirators was also put in the car by Michaela Bartošová from Kunštát before Monday's trip. From Monday morning, he will deliver Easter gingerbreads made in the family bakery to customers in South Moravia. "The police have not built me ​​yet, but I hope I'm fine. I think people have to be poisoned by all this, but there's nothing you can do about it. Maybe at least our homemade gingerbread will make them happy, "says the woman.

 

Another patrol checks motorists on the I / 43 road on the outskirts of Letovice. Here, too, according to the police, everything is going well. Until lunch, they imposed a single fine. The driver, who had not cleaned a completely frozen windscreen before driving, was leaving with the pad. For others, it was no problem. "Over the weekend, I had a protocol on my way to work confirmed. So the roadside check was no problem for me. But I wouldn't focus on them until the weekend when far more people can break the regulation. For example, on the way to trips. Now I think most of them go to work and it probably doesn't make much sense to control. Also, an affidavit is enough and the paper can withstand everything, "says one of the inspected drivers Viktor Ženatý from Brno.

Patrols will be on the roads in the region in the coming days.

Reflective vest in the car

 

Some changes have been made to the Rules of the road this year. For example, the new paragraph 2.3.4 of the SDA indicates that the driver is obliged to get out of the car in a jacket or vest with reflective tapes if an accident or a forced stop occurs at night or in conditions of limited visibility.

 

This means that when the vehicle stops, the driver must go out wearing clothing that will ensure his safety. Note that this rule does not apply to passengers yet. There is no specification at what distance visibility should be limited. Forced stop - this definition refers to cases when the vehicle breaks down abruptly, the driver feels bad, or there is an obstacle on the road. Note that such amendments were made for a reason. Experts took into account the number of road accidents, which has grown significantly in recent years. In 2019, 50 motorists died in the country, who was knocked down right next to the car. The main reason is poor visibility on the road. If a reflective vest is used, visibility can be increased up to 150 meters if the driver drives with low beam headlights. When cars on the road move with high beams, the indicator will increase to 250 meters. Thanks to this, the driver will have an additional 30 seconds to avoid a person on the side of the road without an accident. Also, when developing this rule, the experience of other countries was taken into account, where for a very long time vests with reflectors have been an obligatory item in a car, like a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher. When such garments are made, a background and reflective element are used. The background can glow under ultraviolet light. Reflective parts include elements that can reflect the rays falling on them. The innovation has already received a lot of positive feedback from experts. On the road, this addition shows itself with all its effectiveness. It will not be difficult for drivers to follow such a simple rule - a vest does not cost much, but you can store it anywhere. In any case, such clothes can save a life in one day.

 

Note that if the movement in a vehicle is carried out in an urban environment, it is not at all necessary to carry a vest with you and prove its presence to a traffic police officer. However, if you are planning a long trip, you need to stock up on such an element. The researchers claim that the use of such clothing will help reduce the rate of road accidents by up to 70%. How to choose a vest. Reflective clothing must meet all requirements. It is imperative to have strong tags on which all the necessary information will be indicated. The vest can be purchased at many stores. There are some requirements for such clothes:

 

1. The presence of cutouts for sleeves and torso girth;

2. The width of the reflective element is at least 5 cm;

3. The presence of two horizontal stripes - the lower one is 5 cm from the bottom, the upper one is 5 cm from the lower strip;

4. The presence of two vertical stripes;

5. It is permissible to use vests in the following colors - yellow, red, light green, orange;

6. Vests can be used if there is only one horizontal stripe;

7. The material should be fluorescent polyester.

 

Is there a penalty for not wearing a vest? Today, the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation does not specify any punishment if the driver does not carry a vest with him. This type of clothing has not yet been designated as mandatory. However, if the driver stops the vehicle on the side of the road at night or in poor visibility, he must wear a reflective vest. Otherwise, you can get a fine of 500 rubles. If an accident happened under the same conditions and the driver got out of the car without a vest, the fine will be 1,000 rubles. Bottom line. A reflective vest in a car is an innovation in traffic rules. Such an element helps to reduce the number of accidents on the road because, in the dark, you can see the reflective elements from afar.