Workers' safeguard from radiation risks to be harmonized across Member States through a proposed directive on ionizing radiation legislation alignment by the Commission.

In the heart of Germany, zebra crossings, also known as "Zebrastreifen," have been a staple of the country's road safety since their introduction in 1953. These black-and-white striped crossings, popularized by the "Aktion Zebra" campaign by the Hamburger Abendblatt, are a familiar sight for both pedestrians and motorists.

Rules for Pedestrians

Pedestrians, wheelchair users, and users of mobility scooters have priority at zebra crossings. However, ADAC advises not to rely blindly on drivers stopping. Pedestrians can expect motorized road users to observe their surroundings, as they may cross the road some meters before and after the crossing. It's also important for pedestrians to make eye contact with car or motorcycle drivers to indicate they want to use the zebra crossing.

Safety Measures and Recommendations

ADAC recommends municipalities to check the safety of crossing points and remove visibility obstacles if necessary. It is prohibited to stop or park up to five meters before or on the pedestrian crossing to keep pedestrians on both sides of the street in view. Overtaking is no longer permitted from the traffic sign with an illustrated pedestrian crossing (sign 350) onwards.

Accident Statistics

Despite these measures, accidents at zebra crossings are not uncommon. In 2022, there were 3760 accidents with personal injury at zebra crossings nationwide. Improper behavior by vehicle drivers, such as not adjusting speed at zebra crossings or poorly visible crossings, often causes these accidents. ADAC Hessen-Thuringia notes accident hotspots at crossings where sight distances are not maintained due to parked vehicles, trees, shrubs, or other visibility obstacles.

Importance of Appropriate Driving Style

Lukas Berkel, traffic expert at ADAC Hessen-Thuringia, emphasizes the importance of appropriate driving style by car drivers for pedestrian safety. Motorists should reduce their speed before reaching a pedestrian crossing and keep an eye on their surroundings.

Cyclists and Motorcyclists

Cyclists have priority at zebra crossings only if they dismount and push their bike while crossing. Vehicle drivers, motorcycle drivers, and cyclists must stop before a pedestrian crossing if someone wants to cross the road, or face a fine of 80 euros and one point in Flensburg.

Stay Alert and Minimize Distractions

Distractions from smartphones or loud music can reduce attention to approaching vehicles, so pedestrians should keep distractions to a minimum when crossing. Cyclists are also advised to be cautious and follow the rules to ensure the safety of all road users.

For further information, please contact Maike Willeitner at T +49 69 66 07 85 05 or [email protected].

The pedestrian crossing, initially known as the "Dickstrichkette," was introduced in West Germany after World War II to improve road safety. The right of way for pedestrians at crossings was officially established in 1964. The term "Zebrastreifen" is likely due to the "Aktion Zebra" of the Hamburger Abendblatt in 1954.