The Editor,Sir:As the traffic authorities convene to examine ways to reduce road fatalities, I would like to suggest that they could focus on public education. I am thinking of a campaign called 'back to the basics of driving'. The idea is to use the media to remind, (and in some cases to teach) drivers about the basic steps in proper use of our roadways. The campaign would include the following:
1) The proper use of dual carriageways (such as Highway 2000) which requires that the slower moving vehicle proceed in the left lane. The right lane is for overtaking (the signs are, in fact, placed on Highway 2000). After overtaking, one should return to the left lane, allowing faster moving vehicles to overtake in the right lane. An exception can sometimes be made for proceeding in the right lane when one is approaching an exit lane. 2) The use of indicators when one is going to turn, exit or re-enter the flow of traffic, overtake and return to the left lane. Indicators should be turned off once the maneouvre is complete. 3) Allow enough time to get to destination and thus avoid speeding which may not get you there at all. Truth is, fast driving (not to mention racing) and constant braking use more petrol! 4) Obey traffic lights and yielding at signs marked 'Stop' and 'Give way'. The vehicle approaching the right of a 'Give way' has the right of way. A basic rule of thumb to be remembered is the 'the person to my right has the right of way at a roundabout'. Remember that the presence of broken lines at the entrance of a roundabout means that one should yield to the oncoming traffic not that the paint ran short! 5) Focus on the road while driving. The use of cellphones or any other distracting devices should be minimised (I'm guided if the law says different). 6)Not driving while intoxicated - whether by alcohol, medication, sleep and extreme anger!The above would be buttressed by evidence of the devastating effect that road accidents have on the fatalities and their families.
As I am of the opinion that males are more often than not the cause of motor vehicle accidents, the advertisements could speak directly to these motorists, reminding them of how selfish they behave when they drive fast and reckless.
I am, etc;
ERROL CHATTOO
echattoo@yahoo.com
West Green, Montego Bay
Via Go-Jamaica
