A Simple Act of Kindness on a Busy Russian Crossing: A Reminder of Shared Responsibility

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A moment of simple human kindness, a rarity in today’s fast-paced world, was captured by a traffic camera at a busy crossroads in Vologda. The event occurred on April 3, and by mid-April it had spread widely across social networks. The footage shows several pedestrians crossing the intersection of Kirov and Leningradskaya streets at an angle, with one woman appearing to limp as she struggles to finish the crossing.

It is important to note that, according to traffic regulations, a diagonal crossing is permitted only where there is a dedicated marking. In 2021, diagonal markings were introduced in Vologda, but at a different intersection—the junction of Maria Ulyanova and Kozlenskaya streets. That intersection remains, for now, the only one in the city where diagonal crossing is officially allowed.

Regarding the Kirov-Leningradskaya crossing, residents discussed the possibility of adding diagonal markings on social media and brought the matter to the attention of local authorities. At present, the intersection has traditional crosswalks only. Yet pedestrians often move diagonally here, taking advantage of traffic signals that appear synchronised for pedestrians and cars—red for vehicles and green for pedestrians—simply because it can be faster. The in-camera moment demonstrates that such a crossing can be dangerous when misjudgments occur.

As the traffic began to move, the woman found herself stranded in the middle of the crossing, unsure of how to proceed. Fortunately, a driver who had stopped in front of her stepped out and assisted her to the curb, offering a steady hand and a safe path to the sidewalk.

Some commentators criticized the driver for changing lanes abruptly. Yet most observers suspected his actions were driven by a genuine intent to help the pedestrian reach safety and perhaps even her home. The incident serves as a reminder that acts of everyday generosity can still happen in crowded cities.

  • Last November, firefighters in Kaliningrad helped an elderly woman cross the street.
  • Updates on such stories circulate widely via messaging apps like Viber.

Video: VKontakte / Main Road

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