Be a RESPONSIBLE DRIVER

THE MONTH of June is noted each year as Road Safety Awareness Month, an opportunity to increase awareness of proper road usage and to promote responsible driving on the nation’s roads. The Gleaner takes this opportunity to encourage all Jamaican motorists to be responsible drivers and keep our roads safer. Here are some tips: 1. Don’t use your mobile phone while driving Making or receiving a call, even if you are not directly touching the phone, can distract your attention from driving and could lead to an accident. Your full attention ought to remain on the road while you are in the driver’s seat. 2.

Belt up in the back

Way too often, only passengers in the front are buckled up. However, in a collision, an unbelted back-seat passenger can kill or seriously injure the driver or a front-seat passenger. To be on the safe side, ensure that all passengers in the vehicle are strapped down. 3.

Don’t drink and drive We know you’ve heard this a million times, but we’re saying it again: Don’t drink and drive! Any alcohol, even a small amount, can impair your driving, so be a safe driver and do the right thing.

4. Slow down

At 35 miles per hour (MPH), you are twice as likely to kill a pedestrian as at 30MPH. Slow down and follow the speed limit as best as possible. 5.

Stop, Children Crossing! When driving through a school zone or anywhere that there might be children, take extra care and be extra vigilant. Children often act impulsively, so to be on the safe side, look out for them when you are driving in areas where they might be. 6.

Take a break

Tiredness is thought to be a major factor in more than 10 per cent of road accidents. Plan to stop for at least a 15-minute break every two hours on a long journey. Take the time to revitalise and avoid burnout around the wheels.

7.

Walk safely

When crossing a road, always use a pedestrian crossing if there is one nearby. Help others to see you by wearing fluorescent or reflective clothing in poorly light conditions. 8.

Anticipate

Observe and anticipate other road users, and use your mirrors regularly. 9.

Use car seats

Child and baby seats should be fitted properly and checked before embarking on every trip. 10.

Keep your distance Always keep a twosecond gap between you and the car in front.