good motoring
Make resolutions to follow road safety rules
Time to turn over a new leaf

Traditionally, the Chandigarh Police have declared the first week of January as Road Safety Week. They do a great job of educating drivers and riders in an attempt to make our roads safe to save lives and bring order on our roads.

Since the New Year is just around the corner, it will be a good time to make some New Year Resolutions. Here are some ideas which can make life safer and fun for all concerned:

I will not drink and drive: There will be much partying and drinking. Get a radio taxi for these evenings.

I will drive on low beam: There are bound to be foggy nights. Low beams are more effective in the fog and less dangerous for other drivers.

I will give way to traffic on my right, especially at roundabouts and intersections: It is much safer and that is the proper procedure.

I promise to stop at the stop line and not on the zebra crossing.

I will be courteous and caring for pedestrians.

I will happily give the driver a pass, when another driver wants to overtake. I will not accelerate or race him.

I will not be a noisy nuisance and will not blow my horn unless absolutely necessary.

I will flash my headlights to warn other road users.

I will observe the speed limit. Speed limits are set taking road conditions and traffic density into consideration. These are for your safety and all other road users.

I will park my vehicle at designated places and will not inconvenience other drivers by blocking their way.

I will not switch lanes simply to get ahead of another car. I will promote safety.

I will wear seat belt at all times.

I will not drink, smoke or use a mobile phone while driving.

I will use the outside rear view mirror (O.R.V.M). This will be one of the most useful fitments the manufacturer provides. It is mandatory by law. It is like having eyes in the back of your head ! Make use of them.

I will not take short-cuts or drive on the wrong side of the road.

I will keep my car in a roadworthy condition at all the times.

I will not drive on worn out tyres. I will have these attended to regularly. The pollution-free certificate will be valid at all times. This promises complete safety and good fuel average.

I will respect all road users. Everyone has an equal right to the road, it is public property. Actually you, the driver, has a greater responsibility for the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, children, and even stray dogs and other animals.

I will have a smile on my face at all times. Indian drivers have a scowl and frown on their faces while behind the wheel.

One last New Year’s Resolution: I will continue to make every week of the year a road safety week.

I will make it a road safety year.

Happy New Year and Happy motoring.

Due to technical reasons, Pushpa Girimaji’s column Consumers Beware is not being carried this week

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