TELEVISION ads need to be more conscious of safety norms and act in a responsible manner. One such ad shows motor bikers performing death-defying stunts in the name of promoting a particular brand of motor cycle. A bike is thrown out of a helicopter, and the rider then does a whole lot of dangerous antics on the bike. Is this what the two-wheeler was designed for? This is the best example of what should not be shown on TV. Sure, there is a warning that these antics are being performed by professionals, and should not be tried by the average rider. So what is the purpose behind these ads? As parents we know a little bit of child psychology.
If you tell a child not to do something, at the first opportunity he or she is going to do exactly that. So why implant dangerous ideas in children’s heads that can be life threatening? They don’t listen to reason. The number of bikers driving without helmets is a proof of that.
Another point that auto manufacturers make while highlighting the major features of a new car is how fast it goes. We have had some fabulous super cars released in the country. Porshe, Audi R 8, Lamborghini — they all are available in the country. After a test drive, the scribe concerned gives out some figures. “This car, with its 300 bhp engine, does 0-100 kmph in 2.5 seconds, and the top speed is electronically controlled at 260 kmph.” Amazing statement, no doubt, but are they relevant to us in this country?
Our roads do not allow it. The pot-holed, narrow, over crowded roads inhabited by about 30 different types of traffic and irresponsible drivers simply will not allow such speeds. So what is the point of advertising it? One, I suspect, is to show the ability of the car; and two, the scribe boosts his own image. “Look chaps, this is what I did last week.”
There is another point to consider. There is a limit to human reflexes. In Formula One there are only about 25 drivers in the world who can handle the speeds that F1 cars are capable of. Most important, they have a rigorous training programme all year long. Their reflexes are razor sharp and their physical fitness is that of a thorough-bred stallion.
Compare this to the driver of a super car in India. Anyone who has shelled out a crore plus of rupees is about 50. He is a successful businessman who has been chauffer driven for years. He may not be aware of the finer points of safe driving on Indian roads. For sure, his reflexes have slowed down.
No one can fight the age factor. He has had no training in a rally school, no special ability to control 0-100 kmph speed in a 2.5 second sprint. At moments like this, it is not the ability to reach the speed of 100 kmph in quick time that counts. It is the expertise of bringing the speed down from 100 kmph to 0 that will save your life.
Responsible journos should highlight the importance of airbags. On some models selling in the country airbags are available as accessories. Most prospective car owners opt out of paying extra for airbags. They will pay twice for audio and visual equipment but shy away from airbags. Airbags save life, music equipment won’t. On the contrary, the distraction they cause could be the reason for an accident.
Turning the ignition on runs a diagnostic check of your cars vitals, like oil, battery, engine, brakes.
If the airbag light stays on, check it out immediately. Any light that remains on is cause of great concern. In case your airbag-equipped car is more than 10 years old, the airbags should be checked. This can only be done by the manufacturer, not the roadside mechanic. Check the date of manufacture and the manufacturer’s name.
As always, there is a brisk trade in used or substandard equipment. It will let you down in your moment of need. No doubt airbags save lives. However, they can also cause injury. The airbags should be at some distance away from your body. Very important, the seat back should be upright and seat belts must be worn. Without seat belts, airbags inflating can cause an injury. Know the safety features of your car well, and make use of these.
Happy motoring
