Road safety is everyone’s responsibility
Our daily life on the roads, whether we are drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, carries responsibilities that we often take for granted. Even a small lapse or act of negligence can have serious consequences for us and for those around us. Our new road safety series highlights this in a creative and meaningful way and features Makis Papadimitriou and Kostas Stefanis.
In it, Kostas Stefanis serves as a “driving mentor,” clearly explaining to Makis and to all of us which mistakes to avoid on the road and which steps to follow for safe travel.
Road Safety: A Collective Responsibility
Road safety is not just someone else’s concern. It is, first and foremost, the responsibility of each of us. Just like defensive driving, conscientious behavior on the road begins with intention, knowledge, and consistency.
Some basic practices that we all need to adopt include:
Prepare your vehicle properly
The presence of a warning triangle, first-aid kit, and fire extinguisher is essential. This equipment must be functional and within its expiry date. Placing the warning triangle at the correct distance, depending on the stopping point, can prevent multi-vehicle collisions.
Transport items safely
Choosing approved racks or mounting systems appropriate for the external load we want to carry and securing them properly significantly reduces the risk of detachment while driving. At the same time, adjusting speed during transport is a basic act of responsible driving.
Everyone wears a seat belt
There is no excuse for neglecting the seat belt. Both the driver and passengers must always fasten their seat belts properly before the vehicle starts moving. If a pet is in the car, make sure it is properly restrained using appropriate equipment.
Constant Awareness and Anticipation
Observing speed limits, avoiding sudden movements, and consistently monitoring the road environment are key principles for preventing dangerous situations.
Defensive Driving: The Foundation of Safe Traffic
Defensive driving is a set of driving practices that enables drivers to anticipate potential hazards and take appropriate measures to reduce the risk of accidents and enhance road safety. It involves maintaining awareness of what is happening around us, identifying possible dangers in time, and making informed decisions to protect ourselves, our passengers, and everyone on the road.
Maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, regularly using mirrors, signalling clearly and on time, and avoiding distractions are just some tools of a responsible driver.
It is important to adopt a defensive driving attitude, as in many cases, as demonstrated by the examples in the series with Makis Papadimitriou, a small negligent action on our part can cause an accident.
For a Safer Future
The effort for safe travel is ongoing. Each of us has the power to make a difference through responsible choices.
As Makis points out through the “lessons” he receives that it’s easy to make a mistake, which is why timely information, prevention, and readiness are key factors in avoiding accidents.
Road safety is respect for life, and it concerns us all!