The reality is though, that what we deem “accidents” are not accidents at all – simply because in the majority of cases, they can be avoided. Drivers, even in minor fender-benders, will always seek to defer blame, thanks in part to the insurance edict to never admit responsibility. But that creates a bad example – a culture of not admitting when we are wrong – which is particularly disturbing when you realise that the lion’s share of vehicular crashes involves some degree of undesirable driver behavior. Drivers like these will always point to external factors like road conditions, poor visibility, car malfunction or the other driver as the primary cause, but if they are honest, they will recognise that the fault usually lies with them. Two of the most common causes of road deaths are excessive speed and aggressive driver behaviour; Trinis describe this style of driving as “if the road make for dem alone”.
According to Arrive Alive (www.arrivealivett.com), the lobby group that advocates for road safety and better traffic management systems in Trinidad and Tobago, pedestrians account for approximately 46% of road fatalities; a combination of driver and passengers accounts for another 46%.
These figures suggest that drivers need to demonstrate a greater level of care when using the nation’s roadways by:
• Reducing speed when driving around pedestrians and
• Being cognizant of their environment
Pedestrians, as co-users of the roadways, also have a responsibility to:
• Exercise caution when crossing the roads
• Use designated pedestrian crossings, sidewalks and walk-overs instead of jaywalking
• Wear high visibility clothing, especially at night
In any “accident”, there is a triangle of responsibility. The three basic elements that we should be aware of in order to avoid getting involved in a smash-up, are:
• Thedriver
• The vehicle and
• The driving conditions
Here are a few useful tips to follow to help ensure your safety on the road:
• Only drive a car or motor cycle for which you have been licensed and which is roadworthy
• Drive either below or within the stipulated speed limit
• Stop at traffic lights and obey the rules in the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act of Trinidad and Tobago
• Do not get behind the wheel if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, even prescription drugs; if you are, designate a driver
• Do not drive when you are tired or likely to fall asleep at
• Travelling members of the public should choose a respon- sible taxi or bus driver who obeys the MV&RT Act and Regulations
• Don’t just drive for yourself – be aware of the drivers around you and try to anticipate what type of behaviour is likely as a result of factors like time of day, which day of the week it is and the amount of traffic on the road
The attitude of the driver is also critical in preventing mishaps; road rage has caused a host of unpleasant and sometimes fatal incidents which could have been avoided if there were more local education about road use and courtesy:
• Follow the Golden Rule – treat others as you would like to be treated
• Always wear your seatbelt and ensure that your passen- gers do as well; children especially should be well-secured in keeping with car-seat safety guidelines
• Be patient and considerate
• Show respect to other drivers
• Do not react to provocation from other drivers (and do not provoke either)
• Always maintain a safe stopping distance behind other motorists; tailgating is dangerous
• Pay attention to the speed limit; do not go faster than is allowed
• Do not drive if your judgement is impaired in any way
Finally, ensure that your car is in good working condition by:
• Inspecting your vehicle regularly
• Checking tyres for pressure and wear and tear
• Doing wheel alignment and balancing
• Checking windscreen wipers, windscreen washer containers, shock absorbers, brakes, headlamps, indicator and taillights and mirror adjustments
Remember that any inspection must be conducted in accordance with the laws of Trinidad and Tobago (MV&RT Act). A private vehicle must be inspected every two years once it is over five years old. Vehicles for Hire (H), Trucks (T) and Rentals (R) must be inspected annually. There are certified inspection locations all over the country that issue clearance certificates and stickers. By obeying the rules and driving with consideration for other road users, we will all be able to make a positive difference on our roadways.