Construction site at the interest hole: Pedestrians risk their lives!

Construction site at the interest hole: Pedestrians risk their lives!

There is currently a lot of excitement in St. Ingbert about the closure of the “Interesseloch” pedestrian and cyclist underpass. This very important connection has been closed to all users since the beginning of March, on the instructions of Deutsche Bahn. Initially the construction site was well secured with beacons and a clear sign prohibiting pedestrians, but over time construction work has slowed down significantly, resulting in a lax approach to safety precautions. Construction workers were on site less and less, and the small excavator was ultimately removed entirely. Many passers-by don't seem to mind because they ignore the closure and use the underpass anyway. The Saarbrücker Zeitung explained that the barriers were temporarily wide open, which made it easier for people to access.

What does this mean for the safety of road users? The situation is delicate because ignoring closures can not only have legal consequences, but also endanger the lives of cyclists and construction workers. In this context, the State Office for Road Construction (LfS) has pointed out that both pedestrians and cyclists often tend to disregard closed paths. There are worrying reports that cyclists are using the towpath despite full closures, which not only poses a legal risk but can also lead to dangerous situations. These closures are put in place for good reasons, to protect unsecured construction sites and heavy machinery, ensuring the safety of everyone, as the City of St. Ingbert website explains ( St. Ingbert ).

The dangers of unsecured construction sites

The dangers posed by unsecured construction sites should not be underestimated. A recent incident clearly shows this: a cyclist fell on an unsecured construction site and had to undergo expensive treatment. She sued for damages and was right because the court found that the traffic safety obligation had been violated. There was a lack of warnings and signage indicating the adverse conditions. If such safety measures are missing, the consequences can be dramatic - according to the ruling of the Karlsruhe Higher Regional Court, which made it clear that responsibility for safety lies with those responsible for the construction site ( WEKA ).

The question therefore arises: What can be done to maintain road safety during such construction work? The LfS appeals to all road users to take the existing closures seriously and use the recommended diversions instead. This would be a simple step to avoid accidents and tragic incidents.

The current situation surrounding the “interest hole” is therefore not only a nuisance for walkers and cyclists in St. Ingbert, but also a serious road safety issue. We can only hope that clear measures will be taken soon to restore safety for everyone.