Remember to drive to arrive alive H-METRO
AS we enter the festive season, it is necessary to caution and warn motorists to drive responsibly on the roads by shunning speed, drinking and driving as well as drunk driving, but instead to drive to arrive alive.
Road crashes and fatalities increase during the festive season. This increase is due to the high number of vehicles on the roads, coupled with the tendency of many drivers to drink and drive, speed and carelessly disregard traffic rules.
One significant factor that contributes to road crashes on our roads is speeding. Many drivers tend to replace caution with speed, believing that the faster they drive, the quicker they will arrive at their destination. However, speeding is dangerous, and it leads to multiple accidents. Drivers often underestimate the time it takes to react to unforeseen road occurrences, like other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects on the road.
Drinking and driving is a headache in this country and one of the major contributing factors to road crashes and fatalities during the festive season. Many drivers tend to consume alcohol and still drive, thinking that they can handle it. The truth is, driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous, and it impairs one’s ability to make sound judgments and react quickly to situations ahead. Drunk drivers tend to lose control of the vehicle, driving recklessly, and causing fatal accidents. Therefore, it’s important to shun drinking and driving to save not only your own life, but also that of other road users.
Driving while drunk is equally dangerous and life-threatening. It’s essential to note that drinking impairs your ability to think, react and make sound judgments. Drunk drivers tend to be confused and are unable to distinguish between right and wrong, thus posing a danger to themselves and other road users.
It’s advisable to drive to arrive alive. To achieve this, motorists need to take several precautions before embarking on road trips. Always ensure that your vehicle is in good condition, and if necessary, schedule regular maintenance checks to keep the vehicle roadworthy. Make sure that all your tyres are inflated well and that you have a functional spare tyre. Additionally, ensure that the brakes, lights, indicators and wipers are functioning properly.
It’s also crucial to plan your route before setting off. Familiarise yourself with the roads before embarking on your journey to avoid speeding or reckless driving, which eventually results in accidents. Similarly, make sure that you have enough rest before embarking on long journeys. Fatigue impairs your ability to focus, so it’s essential to take a break and rest if you feel tired.
The festive season should be celebrated by spending time with family, taking breaks and enjoying life. However, it’s important to remember that safety on the roads should always come first.
As we enter the festive season, it is essential to understand that every motorist has a critical role to play in ensuring road safety. All road users, including drivers, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians, must understand their responsibility towards ensuring road safety. However, drivers have the most significant role to play since they are in control of the vehicle and have the power to prevent accidents.
Remember that every life on the roads is important, and nothing can replace it. Let’s all make a conscious effort to keep our roads safe and reduce the number of accidents and fatalities that occur during this time of the year.