Every life saved is a victory for road safety

First Person

Ironically, while road accidents across the world have declined by nearly five per cent in the last 12 years, India has witnessed an alarming increase of 15.3 per cent during the same period. This disturbing trend highlights the urgent need for greater awareness about road safety and the "golden hour", the first 60 minutes after an accident, which are crucial for saving lives.

Every minute counts when it comes to trauma care. Yet, India continues to report one of the highest road accident fatality rates in the world, with over 460 deaths occurring every single day. The paradox is striking. Our country accounts for just one per cent of the global vehicular population, but leads the world in accident-related deaths.

The reasons are both behavioural and systemic. Over-speeding and not wearing seat belts remain the top causes of fatal head injuries. Add to this drunken driving, jumping red lights, distracted driving, lane indiscipline, overtaking from the wrong side, and we have a recipe for daily disaster.

Two-wheelers, in particular, are among the most unsafe modes of transport. According to the UN Motorcycle Helmet Study, motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die in a road crash than car drivers. Yet, helmet use remains shockingly low. Wearing a proper helmet can improve

survival chances by 42 per cent and reduce the risk of brain injury by 74 per cent.

Preventing road accidents requires a mix of awareness, enforcement and personal responsibility. Simple steps like keeping speed under control, obeying traffic rules, wearing seat belts and helmets, and avoiding alcohol or drugs while driving can save countless lives. Vehicles should have anti-

skid braking systems, airbags and rear reflectors, while roads must be well-maintained with clear signage.

India's roads don't have to remain death traps. With discipline, empathy and quick medical response during the golden hour, we can turn the tide. Every life saved is a victory for road safety and a reminder that no destination is worth dying for.

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