tawandamusarurwa
UNLIKE beer, which never intoxicates those who do not drink, driving comes with an extra weight of responsibilities because it can disturb, maim or kill those who are not involved, if not done properly.
The moment one jumps into the driver’s seat, they face the possibility of arriving to their destination safely or not, depending on the state of the road, the vehicle condition, attitude and competence of the driver.
Despite largely being viewed as one of the tools through which a man can lure members of the opposite sex and vice versa, driving demands a serious presence of mind to avoid a catastrophe. Called “kutyaira”, “kumonya”, “kubata” or “monyaz” in street lingo, driving is one skill that people must work hard to perfect to make our roads safe.
Many moons ago, gentle reader, after having spent the whole day sleeping due to sheer lack of funds and the absence of a plan to get cash from elsewhere, Johnny shocked his family when he sprang out of bed to join guys from the neighbourhood who were taking an excursion to Norton.
Heavy booze and braai, which were part of the package, proved too hard to resist for him, given it was a holiday.
Sadly, this was the last time Johnny and the other guys were ever seen alive after the vehicle plunged into a bridge, killing all the occupants.
“What if” and “had they not” were the only statements that remained on the lips of many people, but the boys had left the world.
Such tragic ends to binge drinking have become common in the country and elsewhere in the world.
People perish on the roads in their dozens during public holidays due to the use of defective vehicles, failure to observe road rules and driving under the influence of alcohol, among a host of other causes. The state of the road and lighting conditions are other risk factors. As such, the driver has to exercise extreme caution on the road.
As the country commemorates Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day holidays, it is critical to only venture on the roads when necessary to do so. I share with you tips on what to do and what not to do to stay alive.
Pick a vehicle with suitable safety features
Make sure you check the safety ratings of all the cars before making a choice. Having a car with better safety features reduces chances of an accident while driving the vehicle.
Always keep an eye on the road
You have to ensure anything going on inside the car does not distract you from having an eye on the road. You are strongly advised to avoid multitasking while driving. Not concentrating completely increases chances of distraction, which may result in an accident.
Do not exceed the speed limit
Exceeding the speed limit is not only against the law but is also dangerous to you and other road users. While opting to drive at higher speeds might help you save some time, it increases chances of an accident. It is advisable to always drive below the specified speed limit.
Never forget to wear your seat belt
This is the most significant safety measure that you must take in a car. The absence of a seat belt can cause major injuries to the lungs and the ribcage because of impact with the steering wheel or the dashboard.
Look out for blind spots
Always keep in mind there are a few blind spots in the car. The part of the vehicle behind the car pillars are the ones you need to watch out for. Be careful while taking turns, switching lanes and while backing a car out of a parking spot.
Tailgating should be avoided
Tailgating is one of the biggest contributors to accidents on our roads. Many drivers do not always keep the minimum distance that has to be there between two vehicles on the road. This increases chances of a car hitting the one in front.
Watch out for motorcyclists and jaywalkers
Tailgating might be a cause of some accidents but leaving such spaces in between vehicles may result in other problems. Motorcyclists and jaywalkers are always on the lookout for such gaps and will try to squeeze through somehow.
Never drive under the influence of alcohol
Do not drive if you have consumed alcohol. This is irrespective of the quantity of intake. Alcohol can impair your judgement and can turn out to be fatal.
Follow traffic rules
Make sure you follow all the traffic rules while driving. The regulations were designed with the safety of everyone on the roads, including pedestrians, in mind.
Avoid driving when you are sleepy
Falling asleep while driving can lead to fatal accidents. The driver of the vehicle must be well-rested.
Try to follow lane discipline
Try as much as possible to stick to your lane.
Look out for caution signs
Always look out for any caution signs on the road. These signs give an indication of any danger that may come up on the road ahead.
Avoid using your mobile phone while driving
Using a mobile phone while driving can have the worst consequences on both you and other road users.
Let us observe safety at all times.
Inotambika mughetto.
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Online Reporter