The road leading to Nemi Sharanam from Sandila highlights a key road safety concern as it runs as a single-lane stretch, featuring both marked and unmarked sections. While some parts are flanked by shops on either side, others are residential areas. The traffic flow here typically remains moderate.
A Tragic Reminder of Distracted Driving and Road Safety :
A 52-year-old bus driver, recognized as one of the best in his profession, exemplified remarkable qualities throughout his career. With a reputation for being sensitive, caring, and honest, he avoided any incidents during his entire tenure—qualities that are rarely seen among other drivers.
Driving a private bus at a speed of 60 km/h (the permissible limit for certain stretches), the driver was navigating his regular route on a summer afternoon in 2017. Around 1 PM, as the road curved to the right, he faced a critical moment. To maintain control through the turn, he needed to slow down, adhering to the center of gravity law. However, the intense summer heat made him thirsty, prompting him to reach for water placed on the right side of his seat. While making the turn, his focus briefly shifted from the road as he grabbed a sip of water.
At that very instant, a motorcycle rider appeared from the opposite direction. The rider, traveling with his wife and their 5-year-old son seated on the fuel tank, suddenly collided with the right side of the bus. The impact injured the young boy slightly, leaving him crying at the scene. Tragically, both the husband and wife rolled under the bus’s front tire, losing their lives in the accident.
The driver, deeply shaken and traumatized, found himself speechless in the aftermath of the incident. Struggling to cope with the weight of the tragedy, he resigned from his job a few days later. Today, he spends his time farming and engaging in other activities. Yet, the haunting memory of the accident remains etched in his mind—a poignant reminder of how a fleeting moment of distraction can lead to irreversible loss and sorrow. This tragic event underlines the grave dangers of distracted driving, even for the most experienced drivers.
What is distraction driving?
Engaged in other activities that divert attention away from the road while driving or riding a vehicle. Also Read : Drunk driver with bottle of wine driving a car
Normally there are three types of distraction:
- Visual Distraction (taking eyes off the road),
- Manual (hand away from the steering or handle)
- Cognitive (distracting one’s mind).
Common examples of distracted driving:
- Using a mobile device (texting, browsing, calling)
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to fellow passengers
- Adjusting music or navigation systems
- Reading or writing
- Personal grooming (shaving, brushing, or styling hair)
- Watching videos or movies
- Engaging in conversations with others outside the vehicle
- Taking photos or selfies.
Distraction driving is a road safety concern as it decreases the reaction times, increases stopping distance, and increases the chance of road accidents.
Note: Stay focused while walking, riding, and driving on the road.
Ensure your safety and the safety of others!
Drive Safe and Stay Safe!
