A ban on talking on the phone while crossing a pedestrian crossing. This is proposed by the Ministry of Interior to prevent the increasingly frequent accidents involving pedestrians talking on their mobile phones. A NOVA team checked whether so many people are really distracted while crossing and what they think about this new regulation. For this purpose, we headed to the center of Veliko Tarnovo, where one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the city is located. Quite often there are violations there and pedestrians are fined. In a few minutes, we spotted quite a few people crossing with a phone pressed to their ear. In fact, this is not prohibited. But are there any legal changes and how dangerous is it to cross a pedestrian crossing while talking on the phone and with headphones?
The check for people talking on the phone in the center of our old capital showed that every fifth person crossing the “zebra“ was talking on their phone.
"They instinctively cross on a pedestrian crossing and it is believed that the presence of the “zebra“ protects them. But this is not the case. From the “Traffic Police” we appeal to pedestrians to pay attention, as they are also participants in traffic and must look out for themselves,” said Inspector Georgi Vassilev – “Traffic Police“ – Veliko Tarnovo.
Since the beginning of the year, 11 accidents involving pedestrians have been registered in Veliko Tarnovo, but no deaths have occurred. However, there are quite a few fines for improper crossing. "295 pedestrians for improper crossing. This is the total number for improper crossing, jumping over fences", explained Inspector Vassilev.
At this stage, the "Traffic Police" can only recommend that people who are talking cross the street without their phones to their ears. According to those crossing, the new regulation is unnecessary.