At this time of the year, everyone seems to be in a hurry wrapping up their shopping and enjoying the festive celebrations. But even as you’re dashing around town, it’s important to keep safety top of mind; after all, the holidays should be a break away from work and stress and a time to connect with family and friends. Unfortunately though, many of us have had our lives affected by road accidents at this time of year as the streets are busier, people are more distracted and as the celebrations increase, so too does alcohol consumption.
According to the National Road Safety Council, as at October 31, road fatalities totalled 272, some 49 less than deaths for the similar period last year. The causes are few, far and in between.However, the main reason is always that victims fail to practice and encourage safety among all road users. So how do you practice road safety especially while we’re all having a jolly good time? It’s simple….every driver must know and observer the road code. Here are a few reminders:
Ignore the phone; hands on the wheel, eyes on the road. Many of us are guilty of driving while texting, making calls or taking shots for our social media accounts. Stop! If it can’t wait until you get to your destination, pull over safely and do what you must. The great thing about technology advancement is that it comes with all sorts of handset features, gadgets and accessories to help make our everyday lives easier and more convenient….like hands free, Bluetooth earphones as well as car phones. That way, when that urgent call comes in and if it’s not safe to pullover, you can take your call without having to take your hands off the wheels or your eyes off the road.
Drivers and Cyclists
Don’t drink and drive; assign a responsible designated driver We hear this every day. Driving while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug is a big contributing factor to accidents and road fatalities. Before heading out to that Christmas dinner or New Year party, plan for a designated driver (someone who will not drink) to take you home safely or if the option is available, stay the night and do not drive home.
Slow down; adhere to the speed limits
The longer and emptier the road, the more inviting it can seem to speed because we think we’re alone so no one to obstruct us. Think again before you start pressing the gas. The truth is, you never know what’s around the corner….a police waiting to give you a ticket, your car getting out of control or someone crossing the street. None of these are worth the adrenaline rush.
Wear your seat belt
Always! Practicing this reduces your risk of horrible injuries or death upon collision. Remember that ALL passengers should be buckled up.
Pedestrians and passengers of moving vehicles
Always use the sidewalk, footpath or pedestrian bridges They were made for you to use. Reduce walking out into the street or being hit by an out-of-control vehicle.
To Read More: Purchase your copy of Volume 9 #5 November-December 2017
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At this time of the year, everyone seems to be in a hurry wrapping up their shopping and enjoying the festive celebrations. But even as you’re dashing around town, it’s important to keep safety top of mind; after all, the holidays should be a break away from work and stress and a time to connect with family and friends. Unfortunately though, many of us have had our lives affected by road accidents at this time of year as the streets are busier, people are more distracted and as the celebrations increase, so too does alcohol consumption.
According to the National Road Safety Council, as at October 31, road fatalities totalled 272, some 49 less than deaths for the similar period last year. The causes are few, far and in between.However, the main reason is always that victims fail to practice and encourage safety among all road users. So how do you practice road safety especially while we’re all having a jolly good time? It’s simple….every driver must know and observer the road code. Here are a few reminders:
Ignore the phone; hands on the wheel, eyes on the road. Many of us are guilty of driving while texting, making calls or taking shots for our social media accounts. Stop! If it can’t wait until you get to your destination, pull over safely and do what you must. The great thing about technology advancement is that it comes with all sorts of handset features, gadgets and accessories to help make our everyday lives easier and more convenient….like hands free, Bluetooth earphones as well as car phones. That way, when that urgent call comes in and if it’s not safe to pullover, you can take your call without having to take your hands off the wheels or your eyes off the road.
Drivers and Cyclists
Don’t drink and drive; assign a responsible designated driver We hear this every day. Driving while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug is a big contributing factor to accidents and road fatalities. Before heading out to that Christmas dinner or New Year party, plan for a designated driver (someone who will not drink) to take you home safely or if the option is available, stay the night and do not drive home.
Slow down; adhere to the speed limits
The longer and emptier the road, the more inviting it can seem to speed because we think we’re alone so no one to obstruct us. Think again before you start pressing the gas. The truth is, you never know what’s around the corner….a police waiting to give you a ticket, your car getting out of control or someone crossing the street. None of these are worth the adrenaline rush.
Wear your seat belt
Always! Practicing this reduces your risk of horrible injuries or death upon collision. Remember that ALL passengers should be buckled up.
Pedestrians and passengers of moving vehicles
Always use the sidewalk, footpath or pedestrian bridges They were made for you to use. Reduce walking out into the street or being hit by an out-of-control vehicle.
To Read More: Purchase your copy of Volume 9 #5 November-December 2017
Share this post: