Always consider these elements on the road

THE road is a calm space that will not cause any ac­cidents until four elements come into its vicinity and if they wrongly interact, there is bound to be accidents that may be minor, freakish, serious and even fatal. It is imperative, therefore, for every road user to be cognisant of each of these elements and use the road in a manner that promotes road safety for all. One of the key elements on the road is the driver. These are individuals who are of mature age, trained and licensed to drive a vehi­cle on the road.

It is safely assumed that their indulgence in traffic use is composed of their comprehension of regulations, road signs, markings and all amenities that will ensure everyone is safe under their use of a motor vehicle. Not only are drivers expected to understand traffic laws, they are also expected to comply with them in that they enter the traffic space in their sober minds, habits and attitudes. This would enable them to scan the road, as they drive and discern if there could be potential or actual danger ahead so that they can react accordingly.

Vehicles: Another key element on the road

No vehicle has caused an accident simply parked or motionless, un­less it has been negligently left in a precarious condition and position by the driver. For that reason, it is important, therefore, for all road users, starting with the driver, to be aptly cognisant of the presence of vehicles, especially in the vicinity of roads, either they are moving or stationary.

All drivers must be in a position to understand the vehicles they drive their road worthiness, size, capacity and engage appropriate speed that would be conducive to the road space they are driving.

CONTROL

Lots of accidents have been caused because un roadworthy vehicles have been brought onto the road and hence the drivers have dismally failed to control them or communi­cate with other road users, as per their intended action in the traffic space.

Everyone must position them­selves as per the dictates and move­ment of the vehicle, following or facing their direction. However, most drivers must be in full control of the vehicles they drive at all times. Inexperienced, intoxicated minds and fatigue have denied many driv­ers the ability to exercise full under­standing and control of the vehicles they bring to the traffic vicinity.

Passengers/pedestrians

These groups are very much an integral part of traffic by their very presence on the road. To a large ex­tent, the safety of both is massively reliant on the driver, who shall always be looking out that they are not injured as they use the road. Be that as it may, passengers can also enhance their safety by fastening their seat belts and not allowing themselves to be overloaded. Pedes­trians can also cross at safe places, ensuring that they are visible at all times.

The road: A shared infrastructure Road markings, signage, traffic lights and all laws and rules of the road are a valuable reminder that the road is shared infrastructure. It is imperative for all road users that while they occupy their space, they leave enough space for the use of other road users.

TAKE AWAYS

• Be a sober and responsible driv­er
• Ensure roadworthiness of your car before venturing on the road
• Be visible on the road as a pe­destrians, cyclist or athlete
• Share the road safely with other road users
• Kill your speed before you are killed in traffic.