HOW TO PREVENT ROAD ACCIDENTS
When the results of First year of college were declared, Nikhil was overjoyed. He had stood first in class! Now Papa would buy him a bike, as he had promised. A week later, Nikhil was zooming away on his brand new motor cycle, enjoying the thrill of speed. At 80 kmph, his friends were left far behind, and the wind blowing through his hair was sheer bliss. All of a sudden, a kid darted onto the road, and as he swerved to save the child… Crash! Lying in the hospital, Nikhil thanked his stars that he had escaped with only a fracture, and promised himself (and his worried parents), that in future he would be a careful and responsible driver. (or clippings from newspapers.)
Not everyone is as lucky as Nikhil. In fact, many do not even get a second chance. There are automobiles running on Indian roads today. With rising incomes and lowering prices, the number is increasing rapidly. Modern technology has made vehicles that are sleeker, stronger and faster. But, as statistics indicate, these are also deadlier. Every year, there are road accidents, of which, are fatal. ______Number of people die and are injured in road accidents every year.
At the same time, it cannot be denied that, in this age, one cannot avoid commuting on the roads. The only solution lies in taking steps towards ensuring road safety. Here are some ideas on avoiding accidents, and minimizing casualties on the roads:
1. Know traffic rules: Traffic rules have been created for the safety of the people. Just like a grasp on language is necessary for effective communication, similarly, awareness of traffic rules is necessary for safe driving. The first step towards road safety is to be aware of these rules before venturing on the road. In the case of children, it is the duty of parents to ensure that their child is aware of the rules before allowing him / her to drive a vehicle. Correct knowledge of these rules help to understand various road signs which in turn help us to drive in a responsible manner. However, mere knowledge of rules in not enough to ensure safety. As reported in a local newspaper a few days ago, traffic police in Jaipur conducted road safety classes in various schools. A week later, they went to the schools in morning to see if the students were observing proper safety. But they found that 60% of the students did not follow the rules they had been taught. This brings us to next point.
2. Follow the rules: The importance of this point cannot be overemphasized. As a driver, we are responsible not just for our own safety, but also the safety of others. Traffic rules are like a common language for all drivers. By following them, we can ensure that other drivers are aware of our intentions and they can take appropriate decision about their own actions. Other rules such as wearing a helmet, or a seat belt, speed limits, are created to minimize the injury in case of an accident. Many a times, due to laziness or lack of time or some such reason, we break these rules. Or else, we follow them only out of fear of being caught. But it is important to always remember that these rules are only to keep us safe, and by breaking them, we only expose ourselves to danger.
3. Beware of the other drivers: A good driver always drives with due regard to the others on the road, whether vehicles or pedestrians. Unfortunately, not all drivers are good drivers. No matter how careful a driver you are, there are always some people who will drive rashly. They are a danger to themselves and to others. To ensure your own safety, be careful of such drivers. One of the ways to be safe is to drive slowly. At a slow speed, one is in better control of the vehicle. Also, even in the case of an accident, slow speed will ensure a lower impact because Momentum = Mass * Velocity.
4. Be prepared for the unexpected: As Nikhil learned, life is full of surprises: sometimes unpleasant ones! When on the road, be ready for all exigencies. Keep your concentration on the road- switch off your mobile phone, lower the volume of music or ask your friend riding on the pillion to discuss the latest movie after you reach your destination. If you are very tired or under the influence of alcohol, don’t drive.
5. Maintain your vehicle: Your vehicle is a machine that aids your efficiency. But to make sure that the efficiency is maintained, it needs proper care. Take your vehicle for regular service. Check that the brakes, lights, horn, etc. are in good order. Before leaving for a long trip, this is even more important. Remember, the story of Karan in Mahabharata. At the crucial moment, his knowledge failed him and despite his bravery, he was killed. Similarly, if your vehicle fails you at the last moment, you may have to pay a heavy price despite all your driving skills.
6. Plan your trip: It is a common sight at red lights to see people blaring their horns, getting irritated and exhibiting road rage. Time is a rare commodity in today’s fast moving world. With so many things to do, one is always rushed. As a result, we get delayed in leaving for our destination, and then drive fast to reach in time. Effective planning of our tasks is needed so that we have enough time for commuting, with a few minutes extra for red lights. Studies have shown that breaking red lights and rushing madly through the traffic will only help you to save thirty seconds to a minute. It is not worthwhile to risk you life, and that of others, for so little.
7. If you are a pedestrian, ensure own safety: Cross safely, use the footpath.
8. E.g. Lady Diana, Rajesh Pilot.
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