In the last few weeks, we have seen accidents take people’s lives. Among them were a bishop and another bishop’s wife. This left some of us wondering how safe we the road users are. We therefore have to periodically remind our people of the goodness of defensive driving.
Defensive driving in simple language is driving to save time and money. If you have been on our roads long enough, you know that not everybody drives well. While several of us drive aggressively, others wander into and out of lanes because they are not attentive. At the same time, several drivers follow too closely while others make sudden turns without signalling or weaving in and out of traffic.
Cyclists (pedal and motor) are major causers of fatal accidents. While several are young, they will join a road without reducing speed thus causing a fast moving vehicle to lose control. It is even worse when the cyclist you were trying to save survives the accident but won’t remain behind to explain what could have happened.
We cannot control the actions of other drivers. But we can learn to defensively avoid the dangers caused by other people’s wrong use of the road. Defensive driving goes beyond the laws of the road, but continuously analyses driving choices and their consequences.
The first rule in defensive driving is being attentive. Forget the ‘I never saw him’ since he wasn’t visible. Never rely on what the other road user will do; he makes mistakes too. Yielding your right of way may save you even when you think it should be you first. Drive at speeds suitable for the road. Higher speeds reduce your reaction time, but also increases ‘stored’ energy that will be dissipated in case of a collision. The higher the speed you are driving at, the more the damage that will be inflicted on your car and the passengers.
Seat belts are the most significant safety device in your car. Seat belts provide impact protection, absorb crash forces and keep you from being thrown out of the car in case of a rollover. When driving, ascertain your well being and never drive when impaired. Impairment is reduced ability to control your vehicle. For the cyclists, it is a good defensive practice to use helmets and reflectors so that you can be seen by other road users. Day driving lights should be an added defensive tool.
We should always avoid driving through the red traffic lights. If we are to drive safely our attitude should be focused. We must learn to survive and drive another day. Most mishaps happen when we are upset, or when our emotions are running high. Your judgment will fail you then. If you are in such a state of mind; pull over before something happens that would be a cause for further regret.
Scan the environment as you drive further ahead to prepare for any eventuality. Guard yourself by creating space around your vehicle. Be predictable so that other road users can guess your next move. Always signal your intentions. It is important to recognise your blind spots.
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