Here are the Golden Rules of Driving, according to FIA

Did you know that there are 3,500 people killed on the road around the world on a daily basis? 500 of these deaths are kids. Alarming, isn’t it?

The Federation Internationale De L’Automobile (FIA) thinks so, too. As such, the motorsport governing body and its 245 member organizations aim to stop this trend and make our roads a safer place for everyone through its #3500LIVES campaign.

In this global road safety initiative, the FIA introduced its golden rules for driving that can help save your life and the lives of others. Take note.

Slow Down For Kids

Slow down in high risk areas such as intersections, pedestrian lanes, and school zones where foot and vehicle traffic may be dense.

Obey the speed limit

Remember that speed kills. Find out the speed limit in the route you’ll be driving on and stay within it. A 5% reduction in average speed can result in a 30% decrease in number of fatal crashes.

Use a child seat

It’s no secret that child seats are expensive but you can never put a price on safety. Owning and using one in your vehicle for your beloved kid can reduce the likelihood of fatality in a car crash by up to 70% for infants.

Check your tires

Take the time before entering your vehicle to observe your tires. Check for noticeable wear and tear on the tire tread, as well as if there are chips and cracks on the wheel. Driving with worn out tires puts your life and the lives of others at risk.

Buckle up

Wear your seatbelt whether you’re the driver, front passenger, or sitting at the back. Wearing the seatbelt reduces the risk of death among drivers and front-seat occupants by an astounding 45 to 50%.

Don’t text and drive

Even with the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA) already in place, we still notice drivers using their mobile phones while driving. Keep both hands on the steering wheel and stay focused on the road. Drivers are four times more likely to crash while on the phone.

Never drink and drive

If you’re going out to party and know that you’ll be drinking alcoholic beverages, it would be best to have a dedicated driver with you or simply leave your car and commute. Any amount of alcohol increases the risk of involvement in a fatal road crash. Just by how much, you ask? The FIA says that alcohol is estimated to be a contributory factor in 1 out of 3 fatal collisions. Let that sink in.

Pay attention

When driving, always keep your eyes on the road and drive defensively. Look out for possible obstacles such as pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists as these make up 49% of all road traffic deaths.

For pedestrians, on the other hand, always stop, look, and listen before crossing the street. Just because you’re on the pedestrian lane doesn’t mean a vehicle can abruptly stop even if you have the ‘right of way.’

Stay bright

Cyclists and motorcyclists are advised to wear reflective gear when travelling on the road to be more visible, especially during the night. Meanwhile, pedestrians should use pedestrian lanes and bridges when crossing roads.

Wear a helmet

When using a vehicle with two or three wheels, wear a helmet. Always make sure you wear one correctly when you ride and provide a helmet for your passenger/s as it can reduce the risk of death by 40%.

Stop when you’re tired

In a recent survey, 1 in 10 drivers have admitted to falling asleep behind the wheel. If you feel tired or sleepy while driving, find a safe place to stop and take a quick nap or switch with another driver. Fatigue-related collisions are three times more likely to be fatal.

Check your vision

Your vision is critical in making decisions on the road. You can’t avoid what you can’t see. Have your eyes checked regularly and wear your glasses or contact lenses if needed.

Support the FIA’s #3500LIVES campaign and sign the manifesto which calls on all governments to prioritize road safety.