Road Safety : Defensive Driving & Road Safety Measures

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Chapter : Road Safety

Defensive Driving & Road Safety Measures

Road Safety 

Road safety is a result of contributing efforts from all the sectors of the society including both civilians and government officials. In addition to the human sufferings from road accidents, the estimated costs of the road injuries are a noticeable amount in GNP (Gross National Product) per annum.

BASIC SAFE DRIVING TIPS WITH RESPECT TO LAWS [MOTOR VEHICLES ACT - INDIA- 1988]:

STOP OR SLOW DOWN to allow the pedestrians to cross the road first at zebra crossings.

BUCKLE UP the seat belts to reduce chances of severe injury of the car occupants (section 138(3) (2)).

OBEY TRAFFIC RULES AND SIGNS to prevent road accidents (section 119(3)).

OBEY SPEED LIMITS for your own safety and that of others (section 112(3)).

KEEP THE VEHICLE FIT to prevent breakdown and accidents on road (section 190 (3)).

NEVER USE MOBILE WHILE DRIVING to avoid distractions (section 184 (3)).

WEAR HELMET to protect the head while riding on a two-wheeler (section 129 (3)).

NEVER DRIVE DANGEROUSLY to ensure your own safety and that of other road users (section 184 (3)).

NEVER MIX DRINKING AND DRIVING, be responsible & don’t drink and drive (section 185(3)).

BE COURTEOUS to share the road with the other users and never rage on the road.

SAFETY GUIDELINES PEDESTRIANS:

Walk on footpath - 50% of people killed in road accidents are pedestrians only

Always remain alert while on road

• It is effectual to walk on road sides, if it is having footpaths.
• In case, if it is not having the foot paths then walk on right side.
• It is highly recommended to make use of zebra crossing, subways and foot- over bridge.

A little carelessness can be dangerous

• People should ensure that they are not crossing roads in hurry.
• Should avoid crossing the roads within or in front of the parked vehicles.
• Never jump on the cross-road railings.
• It is very hazardous to cross the road where nothing is visible due to fog or smoke.

Be a Safe Pedestrian

1. Walk on the sidewalks or paths.
2. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the right side of the road facing traffic.
3. Cross road safely using traffic signals and crosswalks.
4. Try to make eye contact with driver before crossing in front of them.
5. Cross at zebra crossing.
6. Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross.
7. Wear well fittings sturdy footwear to prevent trips and falls.

TWO & FOUR-WHEELER USERS:

More than 20% people meeting with the accidents are two-wheeler users

Common safe driving measures 

1. Always wear your safety belt and make sure all your passengers are buckled properly.
2. Always wear a helmet, it is the stepping stone of motor cycle safety.
3. Do not drink and drive. About half of fatal accidents involved alcohol. So when you're drinking let someone drive
4. Always look for pedestrain especially when turning.
5. Avoid over speeding in residential and school areas.
6. Avoid cell phone while driving.

Do’s :

• IS: 4151 approved Helmet preferably full-face cover should be worn while driving the two wheelers.
• Pillion riders must also be equipped with the similar quality helmet.
• The headgear must be worn with appropriate tight & chin strap.
• The driver & passengers traveling in the four-wheeler must be equipped with the seat belts.
• Air pressure must be verified in the front as well as in rear tires.
• Lights of the vehicle must be normal, both high and low beams must be available.
• Indicators must be turned on while turning and after the turn the indicators must be deactivated.
• Both the brakes must be applied in a proper manner.
• Maintain adequate distances between the vehicles in front to prevent collision.
• Follow the lane disciplines on the road.
• Ensure the vehicles are parked in the designated area with parking brakes in case of a four-wheeler.
• Carry the valid and mandatory documents.

Don’ts :

• Overload the vehicles by accommodating more people than the seating capacity.
• Riding in a zigzag fashion is prohibited.
• Must not overtake, while driving on the left side of any vehicle on the road.
• Brakes should not be applied suddenly.
• Talking over mobile phone while riding.
• Travel ling on the bus lane / heavy duty vehicle lane.
• Open the car doors suddenly while riding.

DRIVING DURING FOG:

• Always drive slowly.
• Turn on the headlights and keep them in low beam mode.
• Turn on the fog lamps and parking lights.
• Use defrosters and wind screen wipers.
• Have safe distance between the vehicles.
• If it is really impossible to drive pull off completely and keep the blinkers on.

OTHER SAFETY MEASURES DURING DRIVING:

• Stay relaxed but totally focused and concentrate on the journey.
• Take frequent breaks as required on a long travel.
• Change the drivers to have adequate rests in between while driving.
• Plan and study the long trips prior to commencing.
• Drive the vehicles in a way to adjust to adverse weather conditions.
• Drive smoothly, defensively and allow cushion for the unexpected.
• Do weekly maintenance checks and replace the worn-out parts.