On International Pedestrian Day, Detran highlights the importance of crossing at crosswalks
In traffic, we are all pedestrians. The phrase emphasizes respect for the hierarchy of traffic and highlights the pedestrian as the most vulnerable segment to accidents.
In traffic, we are all pedestrians. The phrase defines the importance of respecting the hierarchy of traffic, which highlights the pedestrian as the most vulnerable segment to accidents. To avoid incidents, respect for and proper use of the crosswalk is an important tool for safety on public roads. This Friday (8), the date on which International Pedestrian Day is celebrated, the State Department of Transit (Detran) reminds us that education is a key factor in preserving the lives of those who walk the streets, highways, and avenues.
Between the years 2023 and 2024, there was an increase in accidents caused by crossings outside of crosswalks throughout Pará. According to the statistical data from the agency, in 2023 there were 16 occurrences recorded across the state, while in 2024, this number rose to 21.
The Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), in its article 69, establishes guidelines for pedestrian crossings on urban roads. According to the regulation, it is mandatory to use crosswalks, overpasses, underpasses, or properly marked locations to ensure a safe crossing. When there is no crosswalk nearby, the crossing should be made in a straight line, in a safe location, and with attention to the distance from vehicles. It is also emphasized that if there is a crosswalk less than 50 meters away, its use becomes mandatory.
Education agent Kleyson Ramos highlights the importance of the crosswalk and the fundamental role of Detran in traffic safety. "Detran plays a crucial role on International Pedestrian Day, but society needs to understand that crossing at the crosswalk is really important. It is your life that is at stake, just like that of the vehicle driver. Therefore, on this day, we further emphasize, with actions on the streets, article 70 of the CTB, which states that pedestrians have the right of way, except where there is a traffic light, in which case they must respect it. However, even where the crossing begins and has not been completed before the green light for vehicles, the pedestrian will have the right of way, and drivers must wait until the crossing is finished," he explains.
According to the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks, and stopping is the obligation of drivers of cars, trucks, buses, bicycles, and motorcycles. Non-compliance with the law is a serious infraction, resulting in 7 points on the National Driver's License, in addition to a fine that can reach R$ 191.54. Few people know, but the CTB also provides for a fine of R$ 44.19 for pedestrians who cross outside of the crosswalk.
In all educational campaigns carried out by Detran, respect for the crosswalk and guidance for a safe crossing are always the focus of the traffic education teams' approaches. "It is up to the pedestrian to follow the guidance to cross at the crosswalk and to drivers to respect the safety crosswalk signage," Ramos emphasizes.
Crossing with children
Traffic education should start in childhood. In 2023, Detran inaugurated Detranzinho, a pedagogical space that teaches children and adolescents from public and private schools about safe behavior in traffic. Crossing at the crosswalk is among the most frequent teachings to students. Last year, Detran adopted the Mobile Mini Circuit Truck, which travels through municipalities to teach children and guardians about using the crosswalk, understanding traffic light colors, and other safe behaviors in traffic.
In a playful, fun, and practical way, it is essential to teach children the correct way to cross at the crosswalk. "Therefore, Detran, through various campaigns, carries out educational actions, workshops, lectures, and events to raise awareness and train pedestrians, providing road safety. In other words, Detran plays a crucial role in education," emphasizes agent Kleyson Ramos.
Crossing with children at the crosswalk requires care and should follow some safety principles. They should always be accompanied by an adult when crossing the street, not cover the child so that they are visible to drivers, walk on the sidewalk, preferably on the inside and away from the curb, and hold children by the wrist are among Detran's main tips.
Text by Anna Kelly Saraiva / Ascom Detran
