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In 2015, the AUVA, which insures 4.8 million people for occupational risks, recorded 11,210 commuting accidents. These accidents represented 11% of all accidents at work, and 63% of them were traffic accidents, by far the largest proportion of this type of accident.
Throughout the country, Monday is the day on which most accidents (21%) occur. On the scale of the Länder, one out of four accidents occurs in Vienna: 27% in 2015. The state (Land) of Upper Austria ranks second, with 19%.
Dusk and darkness, but also rain, fog and snow which often hamper visibility, are especially dangerous. On the road, 90% of information is transmitted via the eyes. That is why it is very important to see and be seen. The best protection for pedestrians and cyclists consists of reflective clothing or reflective items on hats, shoes and jackets. Reflective tapes should be placed on children’s schoolbags and pushchairs.
When visibility is bad, a motorist sees a pedestrian dressed in dark-coloured clothing only at a distance of 25-30 metres. At 50 kph, with a braking distance of 40 metres, it is often too late to avoid an accident. Wearing bright clothing, with a strong contrast, improves matters: however, pedestrians are seen only at a distance of 40-50 metres. On the other hand, those who wear reflective clothing are visible at 130-160 metres.
