Speed Kills!

 

IN a very short period of time, there had been several horrific road accidents in our country, some involving public transports.

 

We have heard the famous and warning statement for years which says “Speed Kills!” However, unfortunately road accidents are increasing day by day because of some reckless motorists.

 

The accidents that caused deaths and serious injuries to road users including students, teachers, families, government servants, politicians and even tourists are alarming.

 

Some even died as good Samaritans while trying to rescue others. I believe, they deserve recognition for their heroic act.

 

Tragic road crash incidents in our country keep increasing especially in festive seasons. Though this is becoming a usual scenario but what is most sickening is the attitude of some drivers.

 

Inconsiderate drivers and dare-devil motorcyclist who overtakes long queue of vehicles both on the left and right in order to get to their destination faster actually worsens the traffic congestion.

 

Their selfish attitude poses danger to other road users and of course to themselves too. Every festive season, people die on road accidents in our country because of so many reasons including careless and reckless driving.

 

It’s so scary particularly on small roads like the trunk road from Gua Musang, Kelantan to Raub, Pahang which is another danger zone.

 

Besides speeding, the dangerous driving of some who cuts into other drivers’ lane abruptly is really irritating and terrifying. They are even willing to take high risks on double lanes and sharp corners by their foolish acts on the road.

 

Hope the authorities will widen every small trunk roads in the country and light it up as it is also used by motorist including buses and trailers.

 

Traffic police and Road Transport Department (JPJ) should petrol these trunk roads preferably with their motorbikes (in times of traffic congestion) from time to time.

 

They should double up their petrol during festive seasons to avoid more accidents and also to take severe action against those terrifying and selfish motorists who speed, beat the traffic lights and don’t use signal lights before turning.

 

The authorities should also increase the safety measures in accident prone areas by putting up proper signage, reflectors, extra road lights and create emergency lanes so that drivers will be more vigilant.

 

According to a news report in April, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri said that road accidents cost the country RM9 billion annually in medical costs, insurance and car repairs. 

 

He said that an average of 6,800 lives were lost to road accidents every year, with 65 per cent of the accidents caused by speeding. As a result of the high cost of road accidents, the government had initiated a number of road safety campaigns.

 

Anyway, the bottom line is: ‘driving manners’ which are much needed in our country to safe lives besides enforcement.

 

Besides, commercial vehicle drivers and company must understand that they are responsible in providing safe journeys for passengers as well as transporting goods.

 

Commercial vehicle drivers must be sent for training to equip them with knowledge to be proactive in handling crucial situations and emergencies during journeys.

 

Meanwhile, parents should ensure the safety of their children and keep them away from playing near roads including in their residential areas. It is advisable to children to be extra careful while crossing busy roads.

 

Motorcyclists and pillion riders should always ware proper helmet and those who are traveling in a car should put on seat belts. These will help to ensure their safety.

 

Please obey the traffic rules at all times. Every road users must always think about their own safety and as well as the safety of others. May God protect all of us as we travel on the road.

 

 

 

Kumarathevan Balakrishnan   

Gua Musang, Kelantan.