One of the biggest concerns regarding road safety in India is the lack of it. By not respecting the laws for road safety, the consequences could be very catastrophic.
Our roads are filled with drivers who are reckless and have no respect for traffic rules. An alteration in attitude is much needed.
Let’s make a difference by being different. Here are some road safety tips to make us different .
Understanding the Road Markings:
Road markings are painted on the roads to direct, guide, and regulate traffic, to avoid needless confusion among road users.
Understanding and following road markings is the preliminary step towards a safer drive.
Understanding Road Signs:
Roads signs are put up so that road users may predict and prepare for what is ahead.
Here are a few common road signs and what they mean.
Signaling:
Signaling while driving is a simple safety and courtesy task that notifies other vehicles or pedestrians of your intention on the road. Effectively using them may prove to be the difference between a pleasurable drive, an accident or worse.
Signal while pulling away:
When pulling away from a stationary position onto the road, signaling can be helpful to other vehicles and nearby pedestrians as well. If a vehicle is approaching from the rear, and you intend on waiting to let the vehicle pass, make sure you don’t turn on the signal as it may cause the driver to slow down or may even stop to let you pass, causing further confusion. Only use the signal when you are ready to pull away onto the road.
Signal while changing lanes:
This is intended to let the vehicles behind you know that you are about to change lanes. It is particularly important to signal on the highways due to the high speeds. Make sure you use your signals at least 100ft before you change lanes so the vehicles behind you have sufficient time to react.
Signaling at roundabouts:
If intending to turn left or right at a roundabout, you must indicate the direction you are turning to. If you intend on going straight from the roundabout, do not signal. Make sure all your signals have been terminated when you exit the roundabout to avoid confusion.
Driving On The Highway:
Driving on the highway always comes with a risk as the speeds are higher. Here are a few tips to observe while driving on the highway.
Follow Lane Traffic:
The left lane is the slow lane and the right lane is the fast lane. Whenever you get the , move to the slow lane so other vehicles wanting to overtake from the rear can pass you.
When U-turning on the highway:
When U-turning, make sure you keep left after you complete your turn. You want to be on the slow lane when you enter the highway since other vehicles are already at higher speeds.
Overtaking:
Always overtake on the right. If the vehicle in front is blocking your path, honk or flash the headlights (during night time) to signal the vehicle in front that you are ready to overtake.
Understanding, respecting and following traffic rules is very important for roads safety. But for a safer drive taking care of your vehicle and maintaining it in a good condition is equally important.
Be safe. Drive smart.
