Namibian roads are the most dangerous roads in the world.
Chances are you have heard about a road accident injuring someone you know. It ‘s a continuous danger wherever you are in Namibia.
When chasing a ball, having fun with friends or even running after a little geckos across the road, we don ‘t always think about traffic and the dangers.
Another big danger on the roads these days are our phones. Playing games, checking Facebook or texting while walking is totally normal. But how many of you have already banged into something because you were more focused on your phone than on obstacles ahead? Off in your own world without a care in the world, until a car screeches to a halt just centimetres from you, honking its horn and giving you the fright of your life… if you ‘re lucky and nothing worse happens.
It is possible to avoid accidents and stay safe! Just follow these simple rules.
Crossing The Road
Have you seen how recklessly people drive?! You almost do a complete turn when they woosh by. So when you get to a road which you want to cross, the rule is: Stop, look, listen. Look right, left and right again. Anything coming? Nope? Well, time to cross! Walk briskly, but don ‘t run across the road. Walk in a straight line and don ‘t stop in the middle of the road. While crossing, continue to look around and listen.
Do not hold hands with your friend when crossing the road. What if one of you trips over and drags the other down? We all have that friend who constantly seems to fall over for no reason at all.
Use a zebra crossing when available, but remember, not all drivers will stop. Make sure cars are stopped before you cross. Make eye contact with the drivers to ensure they have seen you. Even a car at very low speed can knock you over.
Walking Along The Road
Stay off the road as much as possible. Goats, cows and warthogs wander into the road like maniacs with a death-wish, but we are smarter. Use footpaths or pavements whenever possible and keep your eyes and ears open so that you are aware of cars coming from any direction.
If you have no choice but to walk on the road, walk in single file and walk facing traffic. This way you can see oncoming vehicles and walk as far to the edge of the road as possible.
Safe Place To Play
Don ‘t play near a road. That ‘s where cars and trucks drive. Find a safer spot. Plain and simple!
Using The Road At Night
Have you seen the stars and the moon above your town or village? Well, you probably have and that is because it ‘s so dark. It ‘s amazing and awe-inspiring. However, it does have a huge drawback. It means it gets very dark at night in our towns and villages and especially on the roads. Drivers can barely see through the darkness and this is why they so often have to swerve to miss animals or crash straight into these poor creatures and cause major accidents.
Don ‘t be part of that accident. Don ‘t use the roads at night, stay at home far away from the roads.
Communication With Motorists
A driver of a car, truck, motorcycle or even a bicycle needs be aware of you. They need to see you. If you can, make eye contact with the drivers.
Wearing Visible Clothes
Camouflage clothes are awesome and look cool. However, they sometimes work too well and drivers can ‘t see you. So be loud and proud in your dress sense and make sure everyone can see your super awesome threads. Also, when on a bicycle, put on that helmet. Your hair might get a little flattened…but trust us, it ‘s so much better than having your head flattened! Also, in the car, put on that seatbelt. No discussion, just do it!
Don ‘t Be Silly
We all know it is very tempting to be cool and be seen as courageous and a maverick. Impress your friends with your cool moves, awesome style or whatever anywhere else but on the roads. Crossing the streets on a dare, pushing your friends towards traffic or anything similar is not cool. It is simply stupid, silly and puts other people in danger too.
Road Environment and
Road Behaviour
Last but not least, know what the road signs mean and not just the one that says ‘Elephants Crossing ‘. It will make you look smart… In fact it will help you when the time comes for you to get your driver ‘s license, if you don ‘t have one yet. You ‘ll be ahead of the pack.
