FUNCTIONING OF PLASTIC PEDESTRIANS MANNEQUINS IN THE FRAMEWORK OF ATTRACTING THE ATTENTION OF DRIVERS WHEN DRIVING AT PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

Abstract

The responsible attitude of all road users towards each other is an important element in the use of public roads. Pedestrian crossings are considered to be one of the places where most accidents happen. This paper examines the process of functioning of plastic pedestrian mannequins, which began to be massively installed by the authorities on the roads of various cities. In the course of the research, several basic provisions regarding the effectiveness of their use were established. The first of the provisions is interpreted as increasing the attention of drivers when approaching a pedestrian crossing, but this happens only within 2–4 weeks after the installation of mannequins. Then, experienced drivers do not pay attention to them. The second provision establishes the limitation of visibility by drivers of real pedestrians, who quite often are behind plastic mannequins waiting for a free roadway. The third provision describes the negative impact on drivers due to the creation of stressful situations when inspecting the roadway on the move, braking, and then accelerating the vehicle again without the need for that in the form of plastic pedestrians who do not move anywhere. All studies were carried out in real time with confirmation by photo fixation, and a graph and diagram of violations of traffic rules by drivers when moving through a pedestrian crossing was constructed. As a result, it was established that the effectiveness of the functioning of plastic pedestrian mannequins is manifested precisely within 2–4 weeks after their installation on the roadway. Over time, accustomed drivers who follow the same or similar routes stop paying attention to the available safety elements, which are installed to attract the attention of drivers. This applies to drivers of passenger cars and trucks, taxis and buses, as well as utility vehicles.