Accidents have become so common these days, that every day our newspapers highlight on the news of accidents. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 1.35 million people die each year due to road accidents, and a further 50 million are injured. The majority of these accidents occur in low and middle-income countries, where road safety measures are often inadequate. The main cause of accidents can be attributed to rash driving and breaking traffic rules. Road accidents are a serious concern in today’s world. They can cause physical, emotional and financial harm to those involved.
The Causes of Road Accidents:
There are many factors that contribute to road accidents. Accidents mostly take place during peak hours, people are in a hurry to reach their destination, so this leads to rash driving. Also, the lack of road sense by drivers, bad roads and lack of instructions lead to road accidents. The tendency to overtake is also responsible for many road accidents.
Over-loading of passengers and goods is one of the main factors of accidents in India. In villages, people can be seen sitting on the roof-tops of the buses. More than two people riding two wheeler vehicles is also a common scene here.
Increased use of mobile phones is also a factor which leads to road accidents. Drivers not paying attention put themselves at risk for an accident as well as other drivers on the road.
Vehicles with poor management or old vehicle are most vulnerable to accidents. People often overlook the importance of regular maintenance of their vehicles. Negligence in this case may lead to serious mechanical failures while on the road.
Road mishaps are a frequent occurrence during rainy season. It is difficult for drivers to see clearly which makes them more likely to get into an accident with another car or object on the side of the road. Heavy rainfalls are the primary reasons of potholes. Rainy or snowy days create slippery surfaces making it harder for cars to brake quickly if needed.
Many a times because an accident takes place due to drink driving. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, leading to accidents. Although, it is strictly prohibited, such incidents still happen.
What can be done to reduce the occurrence of road accidents?
In order to reduce the number of road accidents that occur each year there are several steps that should be taken both by individuals and governments alike. Governments should aim at creating awareness programs teaching young drivers about safety measures they must take when behind the wheel such as wearing seatbelts, obeying traffic laws etc. This would help ensure new drivers understand how dangerous driving can be so they don’t engage in risky behaviour when out on public roads. Stricter laws and penalties must be imposed. Harsher punishments discourage carelessness while driving.
In India, most of the accidents are due to poor infrastructure. Roads are full of potholes, no street lights, crowded streets and so on. Government should invest in improving existing infrastructure for reducing fatalities caused by collisions between vehicles and objects along highways. Installing better street lights around intersections may help improve visibility during night time hours thus decreasing crash rates overall.
Furthermore, it is our responsibility to follow rules set by the government. Even though Government has made strict rules regarding wearing of helmets, people rarely follow such rules, which are made for their own safety. Staying away from driving and using the mobile phone simultaneously may prevent accidents. Also, there should be regular maintenance and proper control of vehicles.
Road accidents are a significant cause of injuries and deaths worldwide. Every year, millions of people are involved in road accidents, leading to severe injuries, disabilities, and even deaths. The consequences of road accidents can be devastating, not only for the victims but also for their families and friends. To prevent these accidents, it is imperative that riders follow the necessary precautions.
Moreover, people should be encouraged to use public transport and use their private vehicles only when necessary. This not only decrease traffic and accidents, but also reduce pollution levels.