Essential protection on the move to prevent road accident deaths

Every time we take to the road, whether as a driver, passenger, cyclist or pedestrian, we face an inherent risk of a road accident. In 2023, India witnessed a staggering 4,80,583 road accidents, resulting in 1,72,890 deaths and 4,62,425 injuries. These figures highlight a harsh reality: road accidents remain one of the main causes of death and injuries in the country. Pedestrians and two-wheeler riders, who account for two-thirds of all deaths, are the most vulnerable.

Yet many of these lives could have been saved with something as simple as proper use of safety equipment. Helmets, seat belts, reflective clothing and child restraint systems are more than just accessories: they are life-saving tools.

“What we need is a massive awareness campaign at the Swachh Bharat Mission level to solve the problem of road accidents. Many road accidents and resulting injuries/deaths are largely preventable. For example, mandatory seat belt use, not only in the front but also in the back, is the simplest behavior change any of us can practice every time we get into a vehicle on four wheels. With a simple click of the seat belt, each of us contributes to ensuring our own safety as well as that of other passengers,” said Piyush Tewari, Founder and CEO, SaveLIFE Foundation.

Here’s why safety equipment is essential and what we can do to ensure everyone takes road safety seriously.

Why is safety equipment essential to road safety?

The main purpose of safety equipment is not only injury prevention but also survival. Here’s a closer look at some essential safety equipment that can save lives in the event of a road accident:

1. Helmets: your first line of defense

A helmet is more than a legal requirement: it’s a lifesaver. Wearing a helmet reduces the risk of death by 42% and brain damage by 70% for two-wheeler riders. However, not all helmets offer the same level of protection. Only ISI certified helmets provide reliable safety, unlike trendy, inexpensive alternatives that may look attractive but fail to protect in serious collisions.

2. Seat belts: simple but effective

Seat belts are one of the simplest and most effective safety devices. They reduce the risk of death in a collision by half. It’s important to note that seat belts are not just for front seat occupants: rear seat passengers must also wear them to stay safe in the event of a collision.

3. Reflective clothing: visibility matters

Many road accidents occur due to low visibility, especially at night. Reflective jackets, vests and strips make pedestrians and cyclists visible to vehicles, reducing the risk of accidents on poorly lit roads.

4. Child restraint systems: protecting the youngest

Child restraint systems, such as car seats, are not just a luxury: they are essential to saving lives. These systems keep children safe during sudden stops or collisions, significantly reducing the risk of serious injury.

5. Elbow and knee pads: small equipment, big impact

Although not mandatory, elbow and knee protection can significantly reduce the risk of fractures in minor accidents or falls, especially for two-wheeler riders. These simple additions provide an extra layer of protection.

6. Footwear: Safety starts from the ground up

Proper footwear may not seem essential to safety, but it can prevent slips and skids, especially on wet or uneven roads. Whether walking or cycling, sturdy shoes improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.

Why don’t people use safety equipment?

Despite the potentially life-saving benefits, many people in India still do not use safety equipment. Here are some key reasons:

● Lack of awareness: Many are unaware of the wide range of safety equipment available and their importance.
● Cost issues: High-quality safety equipment can seem expensive, leading people to opt for cheaper, less effective alternatives.
● Cultural mindset: There is a perception that safety equipment is not necessary for short trips or daily commutes.
● Complacency: the belief that “it won’t happen to me” leads to risky behavior on the roads.

What can be done to bring about change?

To create a culture of road safety, we need a multi-pronged approach:

1. Awareness campaigns: Sharing real-life stories of accident survivors who have benefited from safety equipment can be a powerful motivator.

2. Affordability: Subsidies for safety equipment can make high-quality equipment more accessible to a wider population.

3. Enforcement: authorities must enforce strict compliance with road safety rules,
including penalties for not wearing a helmet and seat belt.

4. Design innovations: People are more likely to use safety equipment if it is comfortable, stylish and easy to use.

The role of the community in ensuring road safety

Every time someone puts on a helmet, buckles a seat belt, or straps their child into a car seat, they are taking a step toward safer roads. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and small changes in behavior can lead to a significant reduction in road deaths.

At the heart of this problem is a simple truth: safety equipment is not a problem, it is a life-saving investment. By adopting a culture of responsibility and making safety equipment part of our daily routine, we can create safer roads for everyone.