Trends in 2014: Be safe!

ROAD traffic is likely to increase in 2014 in Saudi Arabia as elsewhere.
However, the extra congestion does not have to mean more road accidents if motorists drive defensively and anticipate mistakes by others.
Today’s cars are safer than ever and can actually protect even bad drivers.
However, World Bank statistics confirm 1.17 million traffic fatalities annually around the world, most of them in developing countries. In age group 15-24 years old, road injury is the number one cause of death in the world.
There is a host of measures suggested by motoring organizations to develop road safety, but the core step that makes an impact is “driver training and testing.”
In order to save lives on the roads in 2014, a plan of action has to be put in place which includes: improving road design; teaching children road safety rules at school; enforcing traffic law; and measuring vehicle safety standards.
The World Bank is willing to assist countries around the world to implement viable safety programs.
In the UK, there are some successful campaigns to teach children “The Green Code” for crossing the road; and adults to “Think!” about bikes and motorbikes.
There are seasonal warnings against drink-driving and drivers’ fatigue.
Cars are tested every year for road safety.
There is even a campaign to raise drivers’ awareness of speed limits by phrases such as “It is 30 (miles per hour) for a reason.”
Some other advertising campaigns use shock-tactics about consequences of accidents.
Although Britain is regarded as one of the safest countries in Europe, 3,267 people were killed or seriously injured in crashes in 2011 where speed was a factor.
Let’s make 2014, a safer year on the roads.
Three simple steps would go a long way to ensure your safety: always wear a seat-belt; use children’s seats with harnesses tied to the car; and observe speed limits.

— Adel Murad is a senior motoring and lifestyle journalist, based in London. Email: [email protected]