Wear a reflector every time you go out. During the dark time of the year, a pedestrian without a reflector has a significantly higher accident risk compared to a pedestrian wearing a reflector.
A driver with long-range headlights on will see a pedestrian without a reflector from a distance of approximately 100 meters, depending on the pedestrian’s clothing. A reflector increases the distance to 300 meters. A pedestrian without a reflector can on average be seen at a distance of 30 meters with low beams, while a pedestrian with a reflector is visible from 150 meters.
Even in well-lit urban areas, it can be difficult to see pedestrians walking in the dark. For example, street lights and advertisement lights, as well as shadows of trees and bushes, can make it more difficult to see pedestrians or cyclists crossing the street.
This is reflected in the accident statistics: About half of accidents resulting in pedestrian fatalities or injuries occur in October-January. In these cases, one in five pedestrians wear a reflector.
According to courts of inquiry, half of the pedestrian fatalities that occurred in the dark could have been avoided if the pedestrian had been wearing a reflector.
A reflector is helpful also at the stop: by flashing your reflector at a stop, you can make sure the driver sees you. Raise your arm in good time to signal the driver you wish to board. HSL’s Travel Card casing is handy for this purpose, as it’s got a reflective surface on one side. Card casings can be picked up at HSL's service point.