More than 1.3 million individuals die in road crashes every year, and 20 to 50 million others get serious injuries that often result in disabilities, according to a report on WHO. The Association for Safe International Road Travel states that people slowly recognize the global epidemic of traffic fatalities and disabilities as a significant public health issue. However, different road safety issues like speeding, distracted driving, and drunk driving vary from region to region. For example, distraction in one state may involve drivers texting and driving, while the same problem may involve pedestrians using headphones in other areas. ASIRT also adds that having access to facts is key to being informed about road safety and developing strategies to make roads safer. Below are facts regarding the causes of road accidents and helpful safety tips for new drivers, as well as for experienced ones.
Speeding
While many drivers are aware of the consequences linked to speeding, they choose to drive above speed limits every day. In most cases, people exceed speed limits to ensure they arrive at their destination quickly, especially when they’re running late for appointments. Personality traits also contribute to speeding, endangering everyone on the road. For example, thrill-seekers tend to speed to satisfy their desires or cover up their bad time management. What these individuals don’t realize is that speeding doesn’t save time. Instead, it reduces your reaction time, making it difficult to avoid a collision with other vehicles. Speeding also increases the vehicle’s stopping distances and minimizes the effectiveness of safety equipment.
Driving Non-Road Worthy Vehicles
Every driver has to maintain the roadworthiness of their vehicles to avoid problems, such as engine or brake malfunctions that may cause crashes. With this in mind, conduct a thorough check to ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. Inspect the engine, lights, tires, bodywork, and brakes. If you’re planning to purchase a new car, invest in a safe vehicle. These cars come equipped with high-tech safety features that reduce accident risks. Some safety equipment also increases the chances of survival when you’re involved in a collision.
Since cars don’t have the same safety equipment, buying the safest car can be difficult. However, you can make the right choice by comparing different car models in your local dealership. Start by reading customer reviews to get an idea of how the safety technologies in your desired car perform. Also, check the fuel efficiency, comfort of seats, and dependability on rough terrain.
Inadequate Traffic Laws And Law Enforcement
Traffic laws and regulations are put in place to control driver behavior, thus minimizing road traffic collisions. Unfortunately, many drivers overlook road signs and exceed speed limits, driving when drunk or distracted. Similarly, some states fail to enforce traffic laws, resulting in increased road accident rates. Because of this, traffic authorities must establish, update regulations regularly, and implement them at the national, municipal, and local levels. It’s also critical to impose strict penalties to discourage speeding and other bad driving behavior.
Road safety awareness is vital for all road users regardless of age. By understanding the risks involved on roads, drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists can enhance road safety. As a general rule, drivers should avoid speeding, distracted driving, and driving non-road-worthy vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists should also follow traffic rules to ensure they stay safe.
Author: Jennifer Handswell