Association demands: Pedestrians should be allowed to walk when the light is red

Berlin – Almost everyone does it from time to time, now it should be legal: pedestrians should be allowed to cross streets even when the pedestrian lights are red, demands the association “Fuss eV”

is a model for the initiative of the passers-by association New York. So-called “jaywalking” is now permitted there.

Association calls for “Green Arrow” for pedestrians

„Fuss eV“ is therefore in favor of the introduction of a “Green Arrow” for pedestrians, like the one that already exists for those making turns. This means: Anyone who has made sure that the road is clear can leave.

Board member Roland Stimpel: “The green at the pedestrian lights gives a false sense of security. Last year, 1,781 pedestrians were caught at traffic lights that were green for them Accidents involved. Around twice as many as on red. The biggest risk is turning.”

Many more accidents on green than on red

The motto “Stand when red, walk when green” also gives children a false sense of security Traffic. Stimpel: “The most dangerous thing for children are not the people who cross the street when the light is red, but those who tell them: You can go when the light is green.”

Children in particular have to be taught to keep checking, even when the light turns green, to make sure no one is coming: “They should be just as attentive and careful at traffic lights as they are at zebra crossings.”

The maximum fine is 10 euros

In Deutschland However, the red light violation for passers-by is punished much more leniently than before in New York: There, “jaywalking” cost 300 dollars (around 275 euros). We charge five euros. If this causes one accident, there are ten.

How many like that Fines are punished every year is not known. The German insurance industry estimates that out of 700 traffic violations, only one is ever punished.