Here are some essential road safety tips for all road users. You can get these tips via our social media platforms periodically as a reminder. Just subscribe.

BLINDSPOTS

Blind spots are areas around a vehicle that the driver cannot see directly while looking forward or through the mirrors. Here are some key facts about blind spots in driving:

Location of Blind Spots: Blind spots are typically located at the sides and rear of the vehicle. They can vary depending on the vehicle’s design and size.
Checking Blind Spots: It’s crucial to check blind spots by turning your head and looking over your shoulder before changing lanes or merging. Mirrors alone may not cover these areas.
Adjusting Mirrors: Properly adjusting your side and rearview mirrors can help minimise blind spots. Side mirrors should be angled outward to cover the areas not visible in the rearview mirror.
Blind Spot Monitoring Systems: Many modern vehicles are equipped with blind spot monitoring systems that alert drivers to the presence of vehicles in their blind spots. These systems use sensors and cameras to detect other vehicles.
Motorcycles and Bicycles: Motorcycles and bicycles are particularly vulnerable to being in a driver’s blind spot due to their smaller size. Drivers should be extra cautious and check blind spots carefully.
Large Vehicles: Trucks and buses have larger blind spots compared to smaller vehicles. Drivers of these vehicles need to be especially vigilant, and other road users should avoid lingering in these blind spots.
Lane Changes and Merging: Blind spots are most critical during lane changes and merging. Always signal your intentions and check blind spots to ensure the path is clear.
Passenger and Cargo Impact: Passengers and cargo can create additional blind spots or obstruct the driver’s view. Ensure that the vehicle’s interior is arranged to maintain clear visibility.
Blind Spot Mirrors: Adding blind spot mirrors to your side mirrors can provide a wider field of view and help reduce blind spots.
Driver Awareness: Being aware of your vehicle’s blind spots and the blind spots of other vehicles on the road is essential for safe driving. Always stay alert and practice defensive driving techniques.

• By understanding and addressing blind spots, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall road safety.
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• IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT SEATBELTS:
• Life-saving: Seatbelts reduce the risk of death for front-seat passengers by about 45% and the risk of serious injury by 50%.
• Legal Requirement: In many countries, wearing a seatbelt is mandatory by law for all vehicle occupants.
• Prevents Ejection: Seatbelts prevent occupants from being ejected from the vehicle during a crash, which is often fatal.
• Works with Airbags: Seatbelts are designed to work with airbags. Without a seatbelt, airbags are less effective.
• Reduces Impact: Seatbelts distribute the force of a collision across the stronger parts of the body, such as the chest and pelvis, reducing injury.
• Child Safety: Proper use of child safety seats, booster seats, and seatbelts significantly reduces the risk of injury for young passengers.
• Rear Seat Safety: Wearing seatbelts in the rear seats is just as important as in the front seats. Unbelted rear passengers can be thrown forward, injuring themselves and others.
• Quick and Easy: Buckling up takes only a few seconds and is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself in a vehicle.
• Global Impact: According to the World Health Organisation, seatbelt use saves thousands of lives yearly.
• Education and Awareness: Continuous education and awareness campaigns are essential to encourage seatbelt use and improve road safety.

Remember, always buckle up, no matter how short the journey. Stay safe!

• ZEBRA CROSSINGS:

FOR PEDESTRIANS:

• Avail Designated Crossings: Cross the road at designated crossings only.
• Wait for Vehicles to Stop: Wait for the vehicles to stop before stepping onto the crossing.
• Look Both Ways: Look left, right, and left again before crossing.
• Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like mobile phones and headphones while crossing.
• Cross Quickly: Walk briskly across the crossing without running.

FOR DRIVERS:

• Give Way to Pedestrians: The driver should stop and give way to pedestrians who may be waiting to cross or are already at the crossing.
• Go Slow: Always approach zebra crossings at a slow speed and be ready to stop.
• Never Overtake: Never overtake another vehicle that has stopped at a zebra crossing.
• Be Alert: Look out for pedestrians, especially children and elderly people, who take more time to cross.
• Give respect to the crossing: Never stop or park on the zebra crossing.

FOR DRIVERS:

Always Wear a Seatbelt:

• Ensure all passengers are buckled up.
• Use appropriate child safety seats for infant passengers.

Obey Traffic Signals and Signs:

• Follow all traffic lights and signals.
  • Understand and adhere to road signs (stop signs, yield signs, speed limits).

Obey Speed Limits:

• Drive within the speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions.
• Understand that higher speeds reduce reaction times and increase accident severity.

Avoid Distractions:

• Do not use mobile phones or other distractions while driving.
• Focus solely on the road and your surroundings.

Never Drive Under the Influence:

• Avoid driving if you have consumed alcohol or drugs.
• Leave the car behind if you are likely to get drunk, or better still, ask for help if tipsy
• Use e-hailing services or public transportation if consuming alcohol.

Follow Traffic Signals:

• Obey all traffic lights and signs.

Maintain a Safe Distance:

• Give room for an effective reaction; a safe distance between your vehicle and the one ahead will allow a good reaction to sudden stops.
• Adjust your distance based on weather and road conditions.

Be Courteous and Considerate

• Practice patience and courtesy towards other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
• Use indicators when changing lanes or turning.

Use Indicators:

• Always use turn signals when changing lanes or turning.
• Use your side mirrors before making any turns.

Check Blind Spots:

• Be aware of your surroundings and check blind spots before making any manoeuvres.
• Adjust your mirrors correctly by positioning your side and rearview mirrors to reduce blind spots. Angle the side mirrors outward so they cover areas not visible in the rearview mirror.
• Many modern vehicles come equipped with blind spot monitoring systems that notify drivers when other vehicles are in their blind spots. These systems use sensors and cameras to identify nearby vehicles.

Stay Alert and Rested:

• Be vigilant and watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.
• Avoid driving when fatigued; take breaks on long journeys.
• Be vigilant and watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.

Regular Vehicle Maintenance:

• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and regularly serviced.
• Avoid worn-out tires. They lack traction and are subject to exploding.

FOR PEDESTRIANS:

• Use Crosswalks: Always cross the road at designated crosswalks or pedestrian crossings.
• Look Both Ways: Look left, right, and left again before crossing the road.
• Stay Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night.
• Avoid Distractions: Do not use mobile phones or headphones while crossing the road.
• Follow Traffic Signals: Obey pedestrian traffic signals and wait for the green light.
• Walk on Sidewalks: Use sidewalks where available; if not, walk facing oncoming traffic.
• Be Cautious at Intersections: Be extra careful when crossing at intersections.

For Cyclists:

• Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet for protection.
• Follow Traffic Rules: Obey all traffic signals and signs.
• Use Bike Lanes: Ride in designated bike lanes where available.
• Stay Visible: Use lights and reflective gear, especially at night.
• Signal Your Intentions: Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops.
• Ride Predictably: Avoid sudden movements and ride in a straight line.
• Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay alert and watch out for vehicles and pedestrians.

For Motorcyclists:

• Wear Protective Gear: Always wear a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing.
• Obey Traffic Laws: Follow all traffic rules and regulations.
• Stay Visible: Use headlights and wear reflective gear.
• Avoid Speeding: Ride within speed limits and adjust speed according to road conditions.
• Use Indicators: Signal your intentions to other road users.
• Be Cautious at Intersections: Be extra careful when approaching and crossing intersections.
• Maintain Your Motorcycle: Ensure your motorcycle is in good condition and regularly serviced.