Human Factors In Traffic
In the realm of traffic safety, human factors play a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring the wellbeing of road users. This section outlines various aspects related to human factors in traffic.
Observation
When using the road, it is imperative to pay close attention to your surroundings and remain vigilant, regardless of whether you are walking, cycling, riding, or driving a motor vehicle. Most accidents can be avoided if road users stay attentive. Here are some rules for effective observation:
- Keep your eyes moving; avoid fixating on one angle.
- Maintain a wide view of what lies ahead and behind you, allowing ample room between you and other road users.
- While driving or riding, utilize all mirrors, including the rearview and wide-view mirrors.
- Pay attention to your vehicle’s instruments.
- Ensure that other road users can see you.
- Be watchful of other road users, particularly cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians.
- When passing parked cars, be cautious of opening doors and exiting passengers.
- Give special attention to vulnerable road users like children, elderly individuals, and persons with disabilities.
- Show consideration for users of non-motorized transportation such as horses, donkey carts, handcarts, bicycles, and wheelchairs.
Health and Safety
Maintaining good physical and mental health is essential for making sound judgments while using the road. Here are some health-related considerations:
Eyesight and Vision
- Ensure that your eyes meet the required eyesight standard; wear spectacles if needed.
- Never ride or drive with uncorrected defective vision.
- Avoid wearing sunglasses or tinted helmet visors at night or in conditions of poor visibility.
Fatigue
Fatigue, resulting from extreme tiredness due to physical or mental exertion, poses significant risks. To prevent driver fatigue:
- Get quality sleep before embarking on a journey.
- Take regular breaks when driving long distances.
- Maintain a balanced meal schedule.
- Stay physically fit and healthy.
- Avoid driving or riding late at night when drowsiness is more likely.
- If you feel tired, stop at a safe location and rest.
Distractions
Distractions can reduce your ability to respond quickly in emergencies. Avoid these common distractions:
- Using handheld devices while driving, including cell phones for talking or texting.
- Adjusting the volume, changing CDs, or managing MP3 players while driving.
- Engaging in grooming, smoking, or eating while driving.
- Placing video devices within the driver’s field of vision.
- Allowing distractions from communicating with passengers or other drivers.
- Using GPS units; set them before starting the journey.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, lethal gas found in exhaust fumes. To prevent CO poisoning:
- Regularly check the exhaust system for leaks.
- Never run the engine in an enclosed space.
- If you feel drowsy while driving, stop the vehicle and get fresh air.
Alcohol, Drugs, and Medicine
- Alcohol and certain drugs impair your ability to drive safely. Avoid consuming alcohol or drugs before riding or driving.
- Medications causing drowsiness should be avoided when using the road.
- Do not ride or drive if you are unwell.
Safety Belts
- All passengers, regardless of the journey’s distance, must wear safety belts.
- Ensure that you fasten your safety belt correctly.
- Use appropriate child restraints for children; booster seats are recommended for those under 12.
Litter
- Never discard litter on the roads, as it can be hazardous to you and other road users.
- Always dispose of litter in a dustbin before or at the end of your journey.
Road Rage and Aggression
- Be courteous on the road and refrain from retaliating if provoked by another road user.
Prevention of Theft
When leaving your vehicle:
- Turn off the ignition and remove the keys.
- Ensure that the vehicle is securely parked to minimize the risk of theft.
- Lock all windows and the car boot.
Limitations in Number of Passengers and Quantity of Goods
- Do not exceed the legally allowed number of passengers or weight of goods.
Safety Equipment
All motorists should carry certain safety equipment for emergencies. This equipment includes:
- Reflector triangle: Used when a vehicle stops on the road to alert other drivers.
- First aid kit: Equipped with essential medical supplies.
- Tools box: Contains tools like a jack and spanner for minor repairs.
- Fire extinguisher: Used to address fire emergencies.
- Fire axe: Handy for rescuing passengers in a fire.
- Tow ropes: Used for towing disabled vehicles.
- Spare tire: Ensure it is inflated and restore the deflated tire as soon as possible.
- Jumpstart cable: Helps restart the engine.
- Survival gear: Important for extreme conditions and may include blankets, a torch, food, and water.
By adhering to these guidelines and considerations, road users can contribute to safer and more responsible traffic behavior.