Crash Alert
Red and blue lights. The haunting sound of sirens whistling loudly as paramedics rush onto the scene.
Whether it's a sudden crash or a minor fender bender, road accidents have become a grim reality for many, especially in urban areas like Singapore.
Not a day goes by without a new report of another incident, the familiar voice on the radio informing us of “road closures today… drive safely everyone.”
Common Causes
Traffic accidents are not just the result of poor driving skills; they are often the consequence of bad decisions made by drivers and pedestrians alike. In fact, 94% of road accidents are caused by human error.
1. Mobile Phone Usage
Distracted driving is one of the top causes of road accidents. Checking a text, making a call, or browsing social media behind the wheel takes a driver's attention off the road, even for a few seconds.
2. Not Checking for Oncoming Traffic
Simple mistakes like not properly checking blind spots or failing to yield to oncoming traffic can lead to collisions.
3. Tailgating
Driving too close to the vehicle in front limits the time needed to react in an emergency, making rear-end collisions more likely. This happens all too frequently during peak traffic times and is a top cause of car crashes.
4. Drink Driving
Despite widespread awareness campaigns, alcohol-related accidents still happen far too often. In the first half of 2024, drink-driving accidents increased by 9.1%, with 96 accidents recorded.
5. Elderly Pedestrians Crossing the Road
In fact, 42.9% of pedestrian fatalities in the first half of 2024 involved elderly individuals, with 41% of these accidents caused by jaywalking.
What To Do
Knowing how to respond during an accident can make a difference in saving lives. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you find yourself at the scene of an accident:
1. Park Safely & Away from the Accident
2. Check the Condition of the Vehicles and Injured Passengers
3. Call 995
Note: Let EMS know about the number of casualties, their particulars (if able) and alert them to any major injuries sustained.
As for the location of the accident, try to be as precise as possible. If needed, use your Google Maps to pinpoint your exact location. Simply press and hold on your pinned area to view the coordinates.
Road Safety First Aid
Assess casualties using DRSABC. Assume that there are possible neck/spinal injuries so do not move them unless they are in direct line of danger.
If the casualty is screaming, crying or talking: they can breathe. Prioritise unresponsive or quiet casualties first: check breathing and commence CPR if needed.
A Call for Road Safety Awareness
Whether you’re behind the wheel or a pedestrian, staying vigilant and practicing safe habits can make all the difference.
In summary, being aware of the common causes of accidents, understanding how to respond in an emergency, and committing to safer driving habits can help prevent the consequences of road accidents on the lives of those involved.
Always remember: no text, call, or distraction is worth a life.
Together, we can reduce the impact of road accidents and save lives.