**Safety Advisory for Pedestrian Crossings Due to Summer Heatwaves**
The Korea Road Traffic Authority announced the 'Summer Heatwave Pedestrian Crossing Guidelines' to prevent pedestrian accidents caused by asphalt deformation due to summer heat.
During the scorching summer, asphalt roads can suffer from various forms of damage due to exposure to high temperatures, necessitating special attention from pedestrians.
According to the authority on the 7th, the areas around pedestrian crossings are zones where vehicles repeatedly stop and start, leading to structural characteristics that can result in the asphalt surface cracking, bubbling, or deforming when exposed to sustained high temperatures. Such road damage can pose safety risks to pedestrians, leading to slips or falls.
When exposed to sustained high temperatures, asphalt surfaces can easily crack, bubble, or deform.
**Key Recommendations for Safe Passage at Pedestrian Crossings**
To prevent these risks, the Korea Road Traffic Authority emphasized several important safety guidelines.
Firstly, pedestrians should develop the habit of checking the road surface condition before crossing. Particularly for vulnerable road users, it is advisable to travel with a guardian when possible.
Additionally, during nighttime or rainy weather, visibility may be compromised; thus, it is recommended to utilize bright areas with clearly marked signs.
Users of personal mobility devices (PM), such as bicycles or electric scooters, should safely dismount and walk while pushing or carrying their devices at pedestrian crossings. This helps prevent accidents caused by wheels getting caught or falling into road depressions.
Seo Beom-kyu, head of the Traffic Safety Department at the Korea Road Traffic Authority, stated, "Prolonged high temperatures in the summer can lead to road surface damage, resulting in unexpected accidents. Pedestrians must pay attention to the road conditions and be cautious while crossing."
He also added, "The authority will continue to provide traffic safety information tailored to seasonal road characteristics and types of accidents."
Image source: Cracked pedestrian crossing. / Provided by the Korea Road Traffic Authority, reference material for better understanding of the article / gettyimagesbank
