Road safety aims to prevent road accidents by following certain road safety guidelines. In India itself about eighty thousand people are killed in road crashes every year which is thirteen percent of the total fatality all over the world.
Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death among young people aged 15-29.
Man behind the wheel plays an important role in most of the crashes. Hence it is our responsibility to drive safe, follow the traffic safety tips which can help us all stay safe on the road.
- Be Mature – A driving license is a must before you start driving on the roads. Carry your valid license, vehicle ownership papers and PUC certificate with you while driving.
- Be Smart – Learn Traffic Signs by heart and follow them. Follow traffic signal lights at all times of the day. Use your vehicle indicators or hand signals for planned change in the direction of travel.
- Be Responsible – Don’t allow children to drive your vehicle. It may harm them as well as others. Maintain your vehicle properly and get it serviced regularly. Have an active insurance policy on your vehicle. Make sure that the brakes, headlights and indicators are working properly and that your vehicle has a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit for emergencies.
- Be Cautious – Drive slow at turns, in residential areas, around parks and playgrounds, in service lanes, in crowded areas and at open crossings. Watch out for unusual driving behavior and keep distance from such a vehicle.
- Be Safe – Never Drink & Drive. Don’t be in a Hurry – Drive With-in Speed Limit. Always Wear Seat Belt while driving. Wear a safety helmet while driving a two-wheeler. Keep a Safe Distance from the vehicle ahead. Keep in your lane.
- Be Alert – Don’t use Mobile while driving. Avoid Drowsiness and all sorts of distractions. Keep your focus on the road, vehicles around you, in front and behind too.
- Be Sensitive – Give way to ambulance and police vehicles, to pedestrians on Zebra Crossing and to cyclists. Drive slow near schools and hospitals. Use dipper at night. Do not honk. Don’t play blaring music on road. Always Smile and be polite to others, avoid confrontations by giving way. Do not park your vehicle irresponsibly.
- Be a Role model – Support traffic personnel during jams, traffic signal malfunctions, help the elderly, children and the disable cross the road safely. In case of accidents, help the injured and inform the Traffic control room.
Stay Alert, Drive Safe
Road safety is a critical concern in India due to its high population density and diverse traffic conditions. Here are some essential road safety tips to help ensure your safety and the safety of others while traveling on Indian roads:
1. Follow Traffic Rules
Obey Signals and Signs: Always follow traffic signals and road signs. Ignoring them can lead to accidents.
Speed Limits: Adhere to speed limits. Driving too fast increases the risk of accidents and reduces your reaction time.
Lane Discipline: Stick to your lane and use indicators when changing lanes.
2. Use Safety Gear
Seat Belts: Always wear seat belts, even for short distances. Ensure all passengers do the same.
Helmets: Wear a helmet if you’re riding a two-wheeler. Ensure it is properly fastened and meets safety standards.
Child Safety: Use child seats and ensure they are properly secured.
3. Avoid Distractions
Mobile Phones: Do not use mobile phones while driving. If necessary, use a hands-free device.
Focus on the Road: Avoid eating, drinking, or any other activities that can distract you while driving.
4. Drive Sober
No Alcohol or Drugs: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They impair your judgment and reaction time.
Prescription Medications: Be aware of any medications that can cause drowsiness or impair your ability to drive.
5. Be Aware of Pedestrians and Cyclists
Pedestrian Crossings: Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.
Cyclists: Give cyclists enough space and be cautious around them.
6. Maintain Your Vehicle
Regular Check-ups: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition with regular maintenance checks.
Brakes and Tires: Pay special attention to brakes and tires as they are critical for safety.
7. Stay Alert
Fatigue: Do not drive when you are tired. Take regular breaks on long trips.
Weather Conditions: Adjust your driving to the weather conditions. Slow down in rain, fog, or poor visibility.
8. Use Indicators
Turn Signals: Use turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers.
Hazard Lights: Use hazard lights only in case of emergencies.
9. Practice Defensive Driving
Anticipate Hazards: Be aware of potential hazards and be prepared to react.
Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to allow ample time to stop.
10. Be Cautious at Intersections
Stop and Look: Always stop and look both ways before entering an intersection, even if you have the right of way.
Right of Way: Understand and respect the right of way rules.
11. Use Rearview Mirrors
Regular Checks: Frequently check your rearview and side mirrors to stay aware of your surroundings.
Blind Spots: Be mindful of blind spots, especially when changing lanes or merging.
12. Adhere to Night Driving Rules
Headlights: Use your headlights appropriately. Use low beams in well-lit areas and high beams in dark areas, but switch to low beams when approaching another vehicle.
Reflectors and Indicators: Ensure your vehicle’s reflectors and indicators are working and visible.
13. Emergency Preparedness
First Aid Kit: Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle.
Emergency Numbers: Have emergency contact numbers easily accessible.
14. Respect All Road Users
Public Transport: Give way to buses and other public transport vehicles.
Animals: Be cautious in areas where animals might be on the road.
15. Awareness and Education
Stay Informed: Stay updated with the latest road safety rules and regulations.
Educate Others: Encourage and educate your family and friends about road safety practices.
By following these road safety tips, you can contribute to making the roads in India safer for everyone. Remember, road safety is a shared responsibility, and every individual’s efforts can make a significant difference.