GRS Ajdovščina advises:
Based on available information and general best practices for hiking and mountaineering, I can offer a list of preventive measures that can at least significantly reduce such accidents.
What we can do to prevent similar accidents
Proper route selection and assessment of own abilities
Before departure, check the route character (rockfall, difficulty, exposure). On the mentioned route, rockfall and rock overhang were mentioned.
Choose a route that matches your mountaineering experience, equipment, physical fitness and current conditions.
If you're not sure about safety or difficulty, opting for plan change or easier route is the right decision.
Equipment and safety
Use appropriate hiking footwear with good grip on rocks, especially if terrain is crumbly or wet.
Find and use safety points and make sure the path is marked and safe to pass.
Take basic safety gear: helmet (if risk of falling rocks), first aid, mobile phone with good battery, appropriate protective clothing for weather.
Knowledge of conditions and good analysis of weather and terrain
Before departure check weather forecast: rain, snow, poor visibility, fog, slippery terrain significantly increase risk.
On the way be alert to changes: wet rocks, loose stones, crumbly terrain, lack of protections.
If terrain looks dangerous (loose rocks, overhanging stones), rethink — turn back.
Hiking in group and notification
Although it was known that the hiker went alone for the accident, it's always safer to go in pair or group — in case of accident faster help and notification.
Before departure tell someone outside your group the purpose of the route, expected return time and contacts.
Be equipped with emergency number (in Slovenia 112) and name of mountain rescue service if relevant.
Awareness of risks and taking responsibility
Terrains like Gradiška Tour have specific dangers — rock overhangs, crumbly rock, sudden slips. Be aware no path is “completely safe” — conditioned by terrain state and weather.
Don't underestimate the path just because “it's closer” or seems “nothing special” — every mountain can surprise.
If you feel unsure — due to fatigue, poor visibility or unknown terrain — make decision for plan change or return.
Following recommendations of local mountaineering services and others' experiences
Check notices from local hiking clubs or mountain rescue services (e.g. Gorska reševalna služba Ajdovščina) about path conditions, dangers.
Listen to experiences of people who have done the path — e.g. comments that certain part is crumbly. This can help decision.
Adapt route to season — autumn conditions bring more wetness, leaves, fewer fixed protections.
Conclusion
In summary — we can't guarantee accidents are completely prevented, but with good planning, appropriate equipment, terrain and risk awareness and respect for mountains and own abilities we greatly increase