Nottinghamshire police plea to pedestrians as darker evenings set in

As daylight hours shorten, pedestrians of all ages are being asked to take a moment to think about what they are wearing before stepping out into the darkness.

While any light or bright clothing increases visibility to drivers, reflective items—including strips and tags—are the most effective way to be seen.

These items are inexpensive and can be easily attached to school bags, jackets, shopping trolleys, or even mobility aids used by older people.

The advice comes as part of Operation Dark Night—a nationwide educational campaign timed to coincide with the clocks going back and the evenings drawing in.

Heidi Duffy, Traffic Management Officer at Nottinghamshire Police, said: “With split seconds making all the difference to drivers and pedestrians, being seen by a driver really can mean the difference between life and death.

“Visibility is increased by wearing brighter items of clothing, but having some kind of reflective material really is the gold standard in pedestrian safety.

“There are a wide range of reflective items available at relatively low prices, including strips and patches that can easily be applied to bags or clothing.

“Other items, such as running jackets, often have reflective pigments embedded in them—so buyers should take a little extra time to research this.

“Children and older people are particularly vulnerable, so as our daily journeys become darker and the weather closes in, we ask that people take a moment to ensure they are as visible as possible to oncoming motorists.”

Over the last year, dark clothing has been deemed a contributing factor in 18 fatal or serious injury collisions involving pedestrians in Nottinghamshire.

Nearly all of these occurred in 30mph limit areas where drivers feel most comfortable.

Road safety advice for pedestrians:-

Ensure you are easily seen at all times, including in poor weather

Reflective clothing is best at night

Bright or fluorescent clothing is better than dark clothing but is most effective in daylight hours

Reflective tape or tags can be added to clothing, school bags, and equipment

Most collisions occur when crossing the road, so always use designated crossings