Road Safety Rules
Pedestrian Safety Rules
Cross at marked intersections or designated crosswalks
Crossing at marked intersections or designated crosswalks provides a predictable path for pedestrians and helps drivers anticipate your movements. Use pedestrian signals when they are present, and press the crossing button in time to avoid delays. If no crosswalk exists, choose a location with good sightlines, cross quickly, and continue paying attention to oncoming traffic in both directions.
Look left, right, and listen before crossing; make eye contact with drivers when possible
Before stepping onto the road, scan for traffic from all directions and listen for vehicles that may not be visible. Make eye contact with drivers when possible to confirm they see you and are prepared to yield. This simple check reduces the chance of miscommunication and helps keep crossings safe for you and others.
Use signals, pedestrian bridges, or underpasses when available
Where available, use signals, pedestrian bridges, or underpasses to separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic. These facilities provide a safer route, especially in busy or high-speed areas. Following designated paths also promotes consistency and reduces confusion for both pedestrians and drivers.
Wear bright or reflective clothing at night to stay visible
Visibility is a key factor in pedestrian safety after dark. Wear bright or reflective clothing and carry light when walking at night or in low-light conditions. Increasing visibility helps drivers notice you sooner, giving more time to react appropriately.
Vehicle Safety Rules
Always wear seat belts; ensure all passengers are buckled
Seat belts are a fundamental defense in a crash, reducing the risk of serious injury for both drivers and passengers. Ensure everyone in the vehicle is buckled before and during travel, and remind others if someone starts unfastening their belt while on the move. Child restraints should be used as appropriate for age and size.
Use age- and size-appropriate child restraints
Children require properly fitting restraints that suit their age, weight, and height. Use rear seating for most child passengers, and install car seats or boosters according to manufacturer instructions. Correct installation minimizes injury risk in the event of a crash and helps children stay secure during the trip.
Ensure tires, brakes, lights, and wipers are in good condition and functioning
Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for safety. Check tire tread and pressure, brakes, lights, and wipers to ensure they function correctly. Address any issues promptly to maintain visibility, braking performance, and overall control, especially in poor weather conditions.
Secure cargo and avoid obstructing the driver’s view
Keep the vehicle free of loose items and ensure cargo does not obstruct sightlines or access to controls. Unsecured loads can shift during travel, create distractions, or cause injuries in a crash. Pack safely and, if needed, use restraints or cargo nets for larger items.
Speed and Accident Prevention
Follow posted speed limits and adjust for weather, traffic, and road conditions
Speed limits are designed for typical conditions and rider/pedestrian safety. Adapt your speed to rain, fog, heavy traffic, or poor road surfaces. Slower speeds give you more time to react to hazards and reduce the severity of crashes if they occur.
Maintain a safe following distance (roughly 2–3 seconds under normal conditions)
A cushion of space between you and the vehicle ahead provides time to react if the other driver slows suddenly. A practical method is the two-second rule, extended to three seconds in higher speeds or adverse conditions. Increase this gap in rain, snow, or crowded traffic.
Practice defensive driving and anticipate other road users’ actions
Defensive driving means staying alert to potential hazards and assuming others may make unpredictable moves. Scan ahead, use mirrors, and anticipate pedestrians entering crosswalks, cyclists signaling turns, and other drivers at merge points. Being prepared reduces surprises and helps prevent crashes.
Avoid aggressive driving behaviors that increase risk
Aggressive behaviors—tailgating, rapid lane changes, or shouting at other road users—raise the likelihood of conflict and collisions. Remain calm, follow etiquette, and choose safer options such as yielding when uncertain rather than escalating a situation.
Drunk Driving and Driving Under Influence
Never drive after drinking or using substances that impair ability
Impaired driving significantly increases crash risk. Alcohol and certain drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination. Plan alternatives such as a designated driver, rideshare, or public transit to keep yourself and others safe.
Plan ahead: designate a sober driver, use rideshare, or public transit
Proactive planning reduces the temptation to drive after drinking or using impairing substances. Arrange a return option before social plans begin, and keep contact information for rideshare services handy in case plans change or you cannot rely on a designated driver.
Distractions and Focus
Put phones away or use hands-free only if it doesn’t distract from driving
Distractions compromise reaction times and situational awareness. If you must use a device, limit interaction to hands-free options and only when the vehicle is stationary or when it is safe to do so. Avoid texting or any non-essential tasks while driving.
Manage in-car entertainment and GPS before starting; avoid multitasking while driving
Set GPS destinations, adjust audio, and configure climate controls before you move. While on the road, focus on driving and avoid multitasking that can draw attention from the road and reduce response time to hazards.
Take breaks on long trips to maintain alertness
Fatigue impairs decision-making and reaction speed. Plan regular breaks during long trips to stretch, hydrate, and refresh. If you feel drowsy, pull over safely and rest before continuing to drive.
Bicycle and Scooter Safety
Always wear a properly fitted helmet
A well-fitted helmet dramatically reduces the risk of head injury in a fall or collision. Choose a helmet that matches your head size and is worn securely with straps fastened. Regularly inspect for cracks or wear and replace as needed.
Use lights and reflectors; signal turns and changes in position
Front and rear lights, along with reflectors, increase visibility to drivers, pedestrians, and other riders. Signal your intentions clearly before turning or changing lanes, and maintain predictable riding behavior to help others anticipate your moves.
Ride in bike lanes where available and obey traffic signals
Bike lanes provide a safer space for cyclists when available. Ride in the direction of traffic, follow traffic signals, and yield where required. When a bike lane isn’t available, ride far enough from parked cars to avoid door openings and stay aware of nearby vehicles.
Wear reflective clothing and stay visible in dim light
In low-light conditions, add reflective elements to clothing or equipment. Increased visibility helps drivers notice you sooner and adjust their driving accordingly, reducing the chance of collisions.
School, Work, and Public Transport Safety
Slow down in school zones and watch for children crossing
School zones require extra caution due to the presence of children and crossing guards. Reduce speed, be prepared to stop, and obey crossing signals and school crossing guards. Children can be unpredictable, so stay vigilant.
Stop and let passengers exit safely before moving on
Passengers should exit vehicles safely and orderly, away from traffic. Pause briefly to ensure all doors are closed and everyone is clear before continuing, particularly in buses or larger vehicles with multiple doors.
Follow safety guidelines on buses, trains, and other public transport
Public transport operates with specific safety rules. Observe boarding procedures, seat belts where applicable, hold onto rails, and give priority to other passengers when getting on or off to maintain orderly movement and prevent accidents.
Secure belongings and maintain balance while boarding or alighting
Keep bags and personal items secure to avoid tripping hazards. Hold handrails and watch your step while boarding or alighting to prevent slips or falls, especially on stairs or uneven surfaces.
Road Environment and Weather
Reduce speed and increase following distance in rain, fog, snow, or ice
Weather conditions demand extra caution. Wet or icy surfaces reduce traction and increase stopping distances. Slow down, allow extra space ahead, and be prepared for sudden changes in traffic or visibility.
Turn on headlights or use appropriate visibility aids in low light
Good visibility benefits both you and others. Use headlights in low-light situations, during dawn or dusk, and when weather reduces visibility. Proper lighting makes your vehicle more conspicuous and improves reaction time for other road users.
Check tires, wipers, and brakes; avoid sudden maneuvers on slippery surfaces
Regularly inspect tires for tread depth, ensure wipers are effective, and test brakes. On slick surfaces, avoid abrupt steering, harsh braking, or sharp accelerations that can cause a loss of control.
Be prepared for reduced visibility and longer stopping distances
Adverse weather conditions can obscure pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Increase scanning, reduce speed, and allow extra distance to compensate for limited visibility and longer stopping times.
Emergency and First Aid
Know when to call emergency services and provide location information
In a crash or life-threatening situation, call emergency services immediately. Provide clear location details, number of people involved, and a concise description of the needs. Prompt reporting can save lives and expedite help.
If safe to do so, check for injuries and provide basic first aid if trained
If trained, offer basic first aid while ensuring scene safety. Check responsiveness, breathing, and seek assistance if injuries are suspected. Avoid moving injured individuals unless there is imminent danger.
Move to a safe location if possible and summon help promptly
When possible, move to a safe area away from traffic to prevent further harm. If you cannot move someone, keep them still and wait for professional responders, providing information about the location and condition of those involved.
Exchange essential information and document details if involved in a collision
In a collision, exchange names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details with other parties. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information as well. Document the scene with notes or photos when safe to do so.
Enforcement and Penalties
Penalties for violations vary by jurisdiction and may include fines, points, or license suspension
Legal consequences depend on local laws and the severity of the violation. Penalties may include fines, demerit points, license suspensions, or mandatory traffic school. Understanding local rules helps motivate safer driving habits and compliance.
Comply with road safety laws to avoid penalties and improve overall safety
Following road safety laws protects you and others. Adherence reduces risk, supports orderly traffic, and lowers the chance of penalties. Stay informed about changes in regulations that may affect your driving responsibilities.
Participate in education or training programs if offered by authorities
Some jurisdictions offer education or refresher training on road safety. Participating can enhance awareness, reinforce safe practices, and sometimes address violations more constructively than penalties alone. Take advantage of available programs when offered.
Trusted Source Insight
Source: https://www.who.int
The World Health Organization emphasizes that road traffic injuries are a leading global health burden and that coordinated, evidence-based measures save lives. Key interventions include seat belt and helmet use, speed management, drink-driving enforcement, safe road designs, and effective post-crash emergency response as part of a Safe System approach.