How to drive safe on Indian roads

The situation of road traffic in India is going from bad to worse. The sheer volumes of vehicles plying on the roads and the absence of proper infrastructure has resulted in traffic congestion and unruly driving habits. But the truth is that you need not contribute to the problem. Here we have listed some primary tips that would help in keeping you and your loved ones safe on our roads.

1. Wear your seatbelts

   This rule is a law, but surprisingly, it is not followed to a great extent. Every driver on Indian roads is mandated to buckle up in order to protect himself in the event of an accident, due to his own fault or otherwise. The front seat passenger is also required to wear a seatbelt for the same reasons.

   Likewise, in the case of two-wheelers, the driver and the passenger are expected to wear helmets to protect themselves from fatal injuries on the roads.

2. Follow the right of way rules

   Indian driving ethics today has conveniently neglected this basic driving rule, resulting in innumerable traffic blocks and unprecedented collisions. Even if there is a vehicle that is coming in your path, it is better to let it go rather than trying to overtake it or even getting into a road-blocking argument with the driver. Also, it is necessary to stop for a moment to let the pedestrians cross the road.

3. Manage your time wisely

   Time management is a crucial factor that influences speed driving and subsequent road mishaps. People who race to offices and schools should consider managing their time wisely, and make an early move to their destination, in order to avoid the rush. You should always bear in mind that speeding impacts the safety of the driver and the other people on the road, as well.

4. Follow the traffic light

   This is something that we all have been taught from 1st grade. Halting at the red light is necessary to give the pedestrians a chance to cross the road. Jumping a signal may prove to be costly, as you can collide with an unseen speeding vehicle coming from another direction.

   In case your car is equipped with the auto Start or Stop functionality, stopping at the red light could also save you fuel; a total win-win situation.

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5. Limit the honking

   The honk should be used sparingly for alerting other drivers or pedestrians on the road, but not as a medium for venting out your road rage.

6. Maintain your vehicle

   Regular maintenance of your car is required not only for its longevity, but also for the safety of the driver and passengers using it. Servicing brings out problems in the vehicle that can be repaired before they cause accidents. Regular maintenance of the brakes, the engine, and the electronics of the car avoids breakdown situations that could result in traffic jams. Also look to buy a car with a wide service network, so that you are assured of assistance in the case of unforeseen events.

7. Get the right features in your vehicle

   Safety should be the prime concern of all car owners. You need to understand the importance of installing a good number of safety features, such as airbags, reverse parking camera, and an Anti-lock Braking System with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution System).

8. Get a Comprehensive car insurance policy

   It is mandated by the law that all cars on Indian roads should be equipped with third-party liability insurance. However, for the complete protection for your car, it is best to get a comprehensive insurance coverage. This insurance provides you own damage cover and third-party liability cover, as well. It also protects you against natural calamities and theft.

Conclusion

Road safety is something that people of all ages should be educated about. Everyone should be aware of the rules of the road, irrespective of whether they are pedestrians, people who cycle, or drivers of four-wheelers. The education on road safety starts right from school, and the necessity to obey these rules should be ingrained in the minds of all using the roads.