Chaotic traffic scene with pedestrians and cyclists on Indian roads
Driving or riding on Indian roads is an unpredictable situation that can quickly turn dangerous. Here are some common scenarios, why expect the unexpected is key factor to road safety.
Pedestrian Hazards:
As a driver or rider, you may expect the unexpected that a pedestrian will not suddenly cross in front of your vehicle. However, in reality, on Indian roads, pedestrians step onto the road without looking left or right side of the road (LRL Rules), resulting in drivers or riders having very little gap to react and stop the vehicle.
Cyclist Behaviour:
You might expect the unexpected that a cyclist riding ahead will continue in a straight line or follow predictable paths. However, cyclists may make sudden right turns or merge onto the road without signaling or looking behind.
Two-wheeler instability:
You driving LMV or HTV on Indian road, you can see the many two-wheelers are overloaded or carrying triple riders, making them inherently unstable. On Indian Road. You might expect the unexpect that the two-wheeler to your left side will maintain its position, but it could easily lose balance on the road due to bad road conditions like loose gravel, water, sand, or even speed breaker or Ramblers.
These vulnerable road users often engage in hazardous behaviours on he road, like jaywalking, sudden entries and exits, and merging on the road without looking both sides, putting themselves and others at risk on the road is called except the unexpect.
A driver or rider can see the present and anticipate their behaviour on the road, but they can be unpredictable. Like a pedestrian might suddenly appear in front of your vehicle, or a cyclist might make an unexpected turn without hand signaling. “Read More –Indian roads
The Gap Between Except the Unexpect the Reality on Indian Road : The core issue is that drivers often anticipate positive outcomes, assuming pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheelers will act responsibly. However, the reality on the road is often different. People may not follow traffic rules or exhibit expected behaviour, creating situations that lead to accidents.
How to Expect the Enexpected and stay safe on the road:-
- Stay Vigilant on the Road
- Reduce your speed
- Both Side Mirror Scanning: Every 5 to 8 sec intervals.
- Maintain safe following Distance
The key to safe driving for the vulnerable road user is to expect the unexpected. Never assume that other road users will behave predictably. Stay alert and vigilant on the road; anticipate potential hazards and other road user behaviour; and drive defensively to minimize the risk, accident, and injury.
Remember: Road safety is every road user’s responsibility.
Drive Safe ,Stay safe!
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