Injuries and fatalities on our roads can be reduced, however…
I’m a big fan of road safety. Okay, that’s kind of a Captain Obvious statement. Road safety really affects everyone; drivers, cyclists, motorcyclists, pedestrians, passengers – everyone. Considering that it does affect us one way or the other, wouldn’t it be a good idea to do our part to help everyone reduce or eliminate injury and death due to some form of traffic mishap? And before you say you can’t do anything to reduce injuries or fatalities, you can. If you think it’s naïve thinking, you may be part of the problem. Anything is possible.
Let’s start with drivers of vehicles. Sorry to burst some people’s bubble, but you have an equal say with where your vehicle can go as everyone else. How expensive your vehicle is, how much you’re in a hurry and who you are as an individual doesn’t matter. We’re all the same. We’re all just as entitled while on the road. If you want to change lanes or turn but there’s someone in your way, so be it. Wait your turn. Pressuring them to get out of your way means you’re part of the problem, not the solution. Remember that the vehicle you are trying to “move” has people in it. Not just the driver, but also passengers – parents, kids, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, grandparents. Maybe it’s someone you know. Your actions could affect them, not just the driver. Be patient and respectful. You’ll still get there.
Even weather can’t be blamed. If conditions for driving are not ideal, adjust to those conditions. Ensure your vehicle is mechanically prepared to tackle that type of weather and road conditions. If it’s that bad outside, the best solution is to avoid driving until the conditions improve or your vehicle is better prepared to be driven.
Everything you need to do after you arrive at your destination has to be done after you reach your destination; not 
while traveling to it. Driving is your number one job when you’re behind the wheel. Remove all of your distractions and focus on the road. Be alert, awake and focused. Blaming other’s actions won’t solve the problem either. All it takes is one driver to do something to avoid having two drivers crash into each driver. Be that driver.
There seems to be people who belong to the “It won’t happen to me club”. Unfortunately, things do happen. Protect yourself. Wear your seat belt, control your speed, follow the rules of the road (including having the proper following distance) and no drugs/alcohol before driving. Think of logic and responsibilities to you, your family and society before you make a driving decision. Proactive thinking is far better than having remorse for your actions.
Passengers aren’t always so innocent either. They can sometimes cause a distraction for the driver. This would include passengers of cars, buses and motorcycles. Remember, the driver/rider needs to be in full control of the vehicle. Taking their attention away from the driving task isn’t going to help you either. Think before you act. Ensure that what you’re planning to do is going to be done safely and without causing an issue for the driver. Remember to be respectful and enjoy the ride.
We started our lives as pedestrians and for many, they’ve stayed that way. Many pedestrians are “traffic savvy”, but 
others are not. Teach your kids about being an observant pedestrian should begin at an early age. Letting them know about who should be given right of way and to make eye contact with drivers/riders can help. And never assume the driver can see you just because you can see them. I recall years ago when a pedestrian ran out in front of a turning vehicle. The intersection was dark, the pedestrian was wearing all black and they ran out directly in their path. Yes they were struck by the vehicle, but the good news was they survived. It didn’t have to happen.
Cyclists are a large part of our community. Sharing the road with cyclists, who are far less protected than those in an automobile, should be on everyone’s mind. Drivers need to share the road and make smart moves around cyclists. Also, cyclists need to make good choices while near vehicles. Cycling lanes are reserved for cyclists and although drivers of vehicles are allowed to enter the cycling lane just before making a turn, they should check their mirrors and blind spot before moving over. Never risk the life of someone else just because you’re in a hurry.
Everyone needs to follow rules if vision zero has a chance to happen. It’s not just the drivers of vehicles or cyclists or pedestrians or motorcyclists. It’s everyone working together. It’s time to change the culture of blaming someone else for injuries and fatalities on the road. Take ownership. Act like you’re saving someone’s life…because you are.
**Have a quick listen to this short episode of the “Speed Bumps” podcast as the advantages of following the rules is discussed!