Austrian Kids' Safety in Dark: 13 Reflective Vests Fail Test
Austrian children's safety in traffic is a pressing concern, with over 200 injuries occurring at dusk or in the dark in 2024. Reflective vests can significantly improve visibility, but a recent ÖAMTC speed test revealed alarming results.
In a simple home test, functional reflective vests reflect brightly when lit with a flashlight or smartphone from about three meters away. In car headlights, a reflective vest with stripes can make a child visible up to 150 meters, compared to just 25 meters for dark clothing and 40 meters for light clothing.
The ÖAMTC tested 25 children's reflective vests and found that 13 did not meet the EN 17353 reflection standard. Two-thirds of the vests bought online failed to meet this standard, while all those bought in stores passed. More than half of the tested vests were deemed 'non-reflective' by the ÖAMTC. Despite their importance, reflective vests are not mandatory, and there's no legal requirement for reflection capability.
When purchasing a reflective vest, ensure it has a sewn-in label referring to the EN 17353 standard for guaranteed reflection. Although not mandatory, these vests can greatly enhance a child's safety in traffic, especially at dusk or in the dark. The ÖAMTC continues to test products for safety and quality, and their findings highlight the importance of careful consumer choices.
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