Traffic
rules and signs are irreplaceable, but the state often fines the citizens,
ignoring its shortcomings.
For
example, warning signs for speedometers have no illumination and are
disproportionately small for visibility.
They
are often "hidden" behind trees or buildings. There are many cases
when there are no signs of the allowed speed limit (speed limit rules often
differ even in similar conditions, for example, in the same community). There
are no devices that demonstrate the speed of a car approaching the speedometer.
Moreover,
there are many cases when speedometers and warning signs are not visible at
all, especially because of the unlit streets outside Yerevan.
Lack
of road markings (for example, solid lines) and a number of other factors
exacerbate the problem and increase the risk of accidents or violations.
Since
fining citizens is based entirely on speedometer records, sufficient
predictability and specificity must be ensured for people not to be unjustly
fined.
Pedestrian
crossings have no lighting or are not visible (the issue is especially acute in
the regions). This in its turn causes issues from the viewpoint of the protection
of the rights of pedestrians and drivers.
There
are examples of other signs as well.
In
fact, the main aim of the state in relation to road traffic is to ensure the
safety of road traffic, and the existence of necessary rules and predictable signs.
And
the best way to solve this problem is prevention: the state should do its
utmost for people not to violate the rules.
Otherwise,
the state will focus on punishment instead of prevention.
Finally,
the full guarantee of human rights presupposes the full fulfillment of its obligations
to man by the State, otherwise it will always have a negative effect on every
person.
In
addition, until the State fully fulfills its obligations towards people, it
cannot justify its actions, including fines, in front of its citizens.
We
will raise this issue, and will initiate proposals for necessary solutions to
the competent state bodies.
Mr.
Arman Tatoyan
The
Human Rights Defender of Armenia
Հայերեն
