The annually anticipated festive season is finally upon us. Many will take leave, others will work reduced hours, children are on holiday, some will travel far and wide and generally, people will have different routines to the regular and go to unusual places. Sadly, road fatality statistics add a damper to the festivities when many lose loved ones to road incidents and accidents which are largely preventable. The Southern African Bus Operators Association (SABOA) highlights that while people in general do not anticipate the possibility of being among the statistics, a refresher of key road rules makes them capable of dealing with unforeseen circumstances.
Buses are one of the major modes of public transport and so SABOA encourages its members, as well as bus and coach operators in general, to incorporate a specific set of “10 Golden Rules of Road Safety” into their existing road safety plans and initiatives. Adhering to these 10 rules will benefit the motorists, passengers and pedestrians and increase the safety record of the industry overall.
SABOA is of the qualified opinion that should their recommended rules be practiced by all road transport drivers and regularly emphasised by their company’s management, a decrease in driver related accidents can be expected.
The 10 Golden Rules are as follows:
1. The Speed Rule
• Never exceed the speed limit and adapt speed to the road and traffic conditions.
• Reduce speed at night, in traffic and under poor visibility conditions.
• Reduce speed when approaching crossings, traffic lights, stop streets and pedestrian crossings.
• Reduce speed when pedestrians and animals are observed in or next to the road.
2. The Following Distance Rule
• Never tailgate another vehicle.
• Practice the 3-second rule every time you are driving.
3. The Overtaking Rule
• Never overtake another vehicle unless it is safe to do so.
• Use the indicator to show your intentions.
• Do not speed to overtake or follow too closely before overtaking.
• Do not cut in front of other vehicle after overtaking.
• Never overtake more than one vehicle at a time
• Rather be patient than take a risk.
4. The Observation and Concentration Rule
• Always concentrate and observe the road by scanning for activities in front of you and next to the road you are traveling on.
• Regularly look in the rear view mirror to see the road and traffic behind you.
• Do not perform other activities while driving, such as talking on a cell phone or fiddling with objects.
• Refrain from engaging in conversations with passengers.
• Always expect the unexpected.
5. The Do Not Talk on a Cell Phone Rule
• Never talk or text while driving.
6. The Do Not Drive under the Influence of Alcohol and Drugs Rule
• This is illegal and it places lives at risk as it impairs your concentration and judgement.
7. The Passenger Control Rule
• Never allow passengers to distract you or block your view by standing in front of your mirrors or any other place restricting your view while driving.
8. The Always Obey Traffic Regulations Rule
• This will ensure legal, considerate and safe driving.
9. The Pedestrian, Cyclist and Animal Observation Rule
• Always be prepared for any actions by pedestrians, cyclists and animals on or next to the road.
10. The Intersection and Junction Rule
• Always approach an intersection and junction with caution and expect the unexpected.
• Reduce speed when approaching an intersection.
• Always observe the actions of other road users.
SABOA believes that the above “10 Golden Rules of Road Safety” will contribute to making the roads of South Africa a safer place and encourage all road users to become disciplined and considerate drivers.
About SABOA
The Southern African Bus Operators Association (SABOA) was formed in 1980 to represent the interests of the public transport industry at government level as well as among its stakeholders. SABOA represents about 920 bus operators who collectively operate approximately between 13 000 and 14 000 buses.
SABOA is the credible voice of an inclusive, efficient, sustainable and transforming bus and coach industry. It plays a pivotal role in an integrated transport system through safe, reliable and affordable bus and coach services that add value, and are attractive to stakeholders
For more information contact: Sarah Setlaelo 0612003647 [email protected]