ÖAMTC warns of increased traffic risks for children

The ÖAMTC has issued a warning regarding the increased risk of traffic accidents involving children due to their unique walking patterns. Unlike adults, children exhibit shorter steps, frequent stops, spontaneous changes in direction, and varying walking speeds, making them harder for other road users to predict.

In 2025, 566 children were involved in pedestrian accidents, two of which were fatal. Of these incidents, 185 occurred on the way to school, resulting in one child's death. Traffic psychologist Marion Seidenberger noted that factors such as fear, distraction, or stress can further reduce a child's step length by 10 to 30 percent, increasing the risk of trips, falls, and injuries.

Data shows that a six- to seven-year-old child typically takes eight to ten minutes to walk 500 meters, whereas an adult can cover the same distance in five to six minutes. The average step length for a primary school child is approximately 40 to 55 centimeters, compared to 60 to 80 centimeters for adults.