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The first crash -

The first recorded car crash occurred in 1771, when Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot’s steam-powered vehicle crashed into a wall in France. Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot invented the world's first self-propelled vehicle.

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Road traffic accidents kill a lot of people -

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 1.3 million people die each year due to road traffic accidents.

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Road traffic injuries kill a lot of young people -

According to WHO, these are actually the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged five to 29 years.

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Who’s more at risk? -

The vast majority of fatal road traffic accidents occur in low- and middle-income countries. Africa tops the list when it comes to injury death rates.

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Risk factors -

Risk factors include human error and infrastructural issues, as well as things such as ineffective enforcement of traffic laws. Let's take a look at some of these.

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Speeding -

Speeding is one of the leading causes of road traffic accidents. Speed limits exist for a reason, and they can have a huge influence on the outcome if a crash is to occur. This is particularly true when it comes to the speed a pedestrian is hit with by a vehicle.

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Driving under the influence -

Alcohol and other psychoactive substances can have a serious impact on driving, and substantially increase the chances of something going horribly wrong.

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Not using seat belts -

Wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of death by nearly half when compared to those who don’t wear one.

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Not wearing helmets -

According to WHO, wearing a helmet “can lead to a 42% reduction in the risk of fatal injuries and a 69% reduction in the risk of head injuries.”

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Not wearing child restraints -

These have been shown to reduce the likelihood of death in a crash by 60%.

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Distractions -

Being distracted can be fatal while driving. Using your phone (utilizing your hands) while driving, for instance, makes you four times more likely to get into a road accident.

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Unsafe roads -

Road infrastructure also plays a role in traffic safety. Many roads were not designed with safety in mind. Not only for drivers, but also for motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians. In addition, many also lack proper maintenance and are in poor conditions.

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Unsafe vehicles -

Despite the many safety measures vehicle manufacturers have implemented over the years, vehicles need maintenance. Also, many of these vehicles are indeed outdated when it comes to passive security measures (e.g. electronic stability control, ABS, airbags, etc.).

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Enforcement of traffic laws -

In some countries and regions, traffic laws are not properly enforced, and this can have a negative impact on road traffic safety. Now, let’s take a look at some extra tips for road users.

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Traffic safety tips for drivers and motorcyclists -

In addition to those mentioned above (not driving under the influence, wearing a seat belt/helmet, respecting speed limits, and not using your phone), it’s also important to stress that you should be well aware of other drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, etc.

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Respect traffic signals -

All of them. No exceptions. This includes stopping when there’s a stop sign, not just slowing down. Signal properly when you turn, and turn on your lights when required.

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Beware of cyclists -

Respect cyclists. Unlike drivers or motorcyclists, they cannot go much faster, and they don't have sophisticated brakes. Nor can they go on the sidewalks. You will have to share the road with them, so keep a safe distance and make sure you check before opening your car door.

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Beware of weather conditions -

It’s important to evaluate the weather conditions and how these may affect the road and all its users. Rain, snow, and ice, in particular, can really affect road surface and have an impact on traction, and therefore stopping distances.

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Traffic safety tips for cyclists -

Cyclists share the same rights and responsibilities as drivers and other road users, so they should respect all traffic laws, including all road signals. This includes stopping at red signals, among others.

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Be visible -

Make sure both you and your bike are visible. Reflective clothing, as well as lights, can do a pretty good job making sure other road users see you.

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Be predictable -

Ride in a straight line, whenever possible, and don’t make sudden turns or stop abruptly.

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Wear protective gear -

Wearing a helmet is the minimum you should do when riding your bicycle.

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Traffic safety tips for pedestrians -

Pedestrians should always use the sidewalks. This is a no-brainer. Though if there isn’t one, and you have to walk on the road, make sure you walk facing traffic.

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Don’t assume a driver has seen you -

This is one of the reasons accidents happen. Before crossing a street, for instance, make sure the driver is purposely slowing down because they have seen you.

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Use crosswalks -

This is yet another basic tip, but one worth mentioning nonetheless. Some people just disregard these, but, if there is one, use it.

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Be visible -

Crossing a busy road in a poorly-lit area might not be a great idea. Always look for areas with good visibility when crossing.

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Be alert -

This may sound like common sense, but nowadays it’s easier than ever to get distracted. All it takes is checking your phone or listening to music.

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Drive/ride defensively -

Being a defensive driver can help you prevent situations that can lead to accidents. Staying on top of things such as speed and distances between vehicles can be very helpful when it’s time to turn or break.

Sources: (World Health Organization) (National Today) (Altus Emergency Centers)

See also: Car racing techniques that'll make you a better driver 

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