Rights and obligations of pedestrians

In Bulgaria, as in every country, the Road Traffic Act defines the rights and obligations of all road users, including pedestrians. Understanding these rules is essential for preventing road accidents and ensuring personal safety. In this article, attorney Georgi Georgiev reviews the rights and obligations of pedestrians in Bulgaria, what sanctions can be imposed for violations, and how a fine can be appealed.

Pedestrian rights

Pedestrians in Bulgaria enjoy a number of rights that guarantee their safety on the road. These include:

• Right of way on pedestrian paths: When a pedestrian is on a crosswalk, he has priority over motor vehicles, unless there is a traffic light regulation on the crosswalk that favors vehicles. This does not apply to rail vehicles, however.
• Access to sidewalks and pedestrian areas: Pedestrians have the right to use sidewalks and areas designated exclusively for pedestrian traffic.

Pedestrian responsibilities

Pedestrian duties are created to maintain order and safety on the road. They include:

• Pedestrians are required to walk on the sidewalk or shoulder of the roadway.. Pedestrians may move on the traffic lane opposite to the direction of traffic of road vehicles, as close as possible to its left border: when there is no sidewalk or shoulder or it is impossible to use them; or when carrying or pushing bulky objects, when this makes the movement of other pedestrians difficult.
• Obeying traffic lights: Pedestrians must cross on a green light and wait on a red light.
• Crossing pedestrian paths: It is necessary to cross at places designated for this purpose, such as pedestrian crossings. Before entering the traffic lane, pedestrians may signal their intention by giving a signal with their left or right hand, extended upwards or across the road. However, the signal does not exempt pedestrians from the obligation, before entering the traffic lane, to take into account the distance to approaching vehicles and their speed.
• Use of reflective elements: It is recommended to wear reflective elements at night or in poor visibility.

Penalties for violations

If the rules are not followed, pedestrians may be sanctioned with fines (between 20 and 50 BGN), the amount of which depends on the type of violation. For example:

• Crossing at a red light may result in a fine of 50 leva.
• Failure to comply with traffic rules on sidewalks and pedestrian paths may result in a fine of 20 BGN.

Appealing fines

In case a pedestrian believes that the fine has been imposed unfairly, he has the right to appeal. The appeal process involves submitting a written complaint to the relevant court within 14 days of receiving the penalty notice or ticket. It is important that the complaint contains all the necessary evidence and arguments that support the pedestrian's position.

Appeal procedure:

1. Submitting a complaint: The appeal must be addressed through the authority that issued the act to the relevant administrative court, stating the details of the case and the arguments for the appeal.
2. Review of the complaint: The court will schedule a hearing at which both parties (the pedestrian and the representative of the authority that imposed the fine) will have the opportunity to present their arguments.
3. Court decision: Based on the evidence and arguments provided, the court will make a decision on the appeal. It is subject to subsequent control by a higher court.

Reimbursement of legal costs:

If the court overturns the fine, the pedestrian can request reimbursement of legal costs. This includes attorney fees, court fees, and other expenses incurred in the appeal process.

The role of the lawyer

In such situations, the role of a lawyer is extremely important. Professional legal advice and representation in court can significantly increase the chances of a successful appeal of the fine. Lawyers specializing in administrative criminal law can help identify the legal grounds for appeal, prepare the necessary documents and provide procedural representation in court.

Conclusion

Road safety and compliance with traffic rules are crucial to preventing road accidents. Pedestrians in Bulgaria need to be informed about their rights and obligations, as well as the process for appealing fines. If you have legal issues or need to appeal, seeking professional legal assistance is the key to protecting your personal rights and interests on the road.

You can learn more about pedestrian rights and traffic accidents. from here.
If we are injured in an accident, contact us for consultation. We can take on your legal defense, and you will only owe a fee if you are successful.