Take lessons from traffic accidents to avoid more occurrences

TRAFFIC rules are essential for the safety of both road users and non-road users. Everyone, from vehicle opera­tors to pedestrians and those living near roads, must fully understand and follow traffic regulations. Adhering to these rules is crucial to preventing traffic accidents, which can have devastating consequences.

Traffic accidents can occur for various reasons, and they are not always predictable. Some common causes include road conditions, loss of control of vehicles, irregularities in traffic flow, weather condi­tions, malfunctioning traffic lights, unexpected road events, careless pedestrian crossings, reckless driving, and impaired driving due to mental health issues or substance abuse.

Other factors that lead to traffic accidents include vehi­cle design flaws, traffic con­gestion, pedestrians crowding the roads, lack of driving skills, failure to wear seat belts, dis­tractions like mobile phone use, and drug abuse while driving. Additionally, narrow traffic lanes due to roadside vendors, sudden road collaps­es, and debris from collapsed buildings can create hazard­ous conditions that result in accidents.

Traffic accidents almost always result in some form of loss, whether it be injuries, fa­talities, or property damage. Therefore, it is crucial not to underestimate the potential dangers of traffic accidents. Worldwide statistics reveal that 22.8 per cent of casualties oc­cur in traffic accidents, com­pared to 10.8 per cent in acts of terrorism and violence, 18.1 per cent from other causes, and 3.4 per cent from armed conflicts. These numbers highlight that traffic accidents account for the highest percentage of casualties globally.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2022 global road safety report, approximately 1.35 million people die each year in traffic accidents worldwide. Notably, traffic accidents are the leading cause of death among children and young people aged 5 to 29. In Myanmar, the Directorate of Road Transport Administration reported that over 2,000 people died in traffic accidents across the country, including on the Yangon-Mandalay expressway.

Traffic accidents are not just unfortunate events; they are life-threatening situations that require serious attention from every­one on the road. By taking lessons from past accidents, individuals can better understand the risks and make informed decisions to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

Traffic accidents bring different losses to the victims and their families, as well as to the socioeconomy of the nation. In fact, traffic accidents are based on the careless acts of all road users. Harmful consequences will be loss of life and limbs for victims, as well as punishment for offenders. Hence, everybody needs to take care as well as follow traffic rules without fail.