Road Safety is a Collective Responsibility

The Rwanda National Police (RNP) has announced plans to step up traffic discipline. The move has received massive boost from the government, with public officials and civil servants particularly cautioned against breaking traffic rules, and instead urged to lead by example.According to police data, traffic accidents are on the decline. They decreased by 16.5 percent in 2011 compared to the previous year.Whereas there has been commendable improvement in terms of traffic discipline, with travelers and motorists observing the minimum standards such as wearing safety belts and respecting traffic lights, it is clear that a lot more needs to be done to ensure road safety.Statistics from last year also indicate that at least 2,400 people were injured and 350 killed as a result of traffic accidents.To further reduce the road accidents, it is important that risky habits such as respect for zebra-crossings and texting while driving are done away with.It’s really unfortunate that traffic officers have to be stationed at zebra-crossings to prevent violation and possible accidents, even if these spots are clearly marked.These are simple etiquettes that everyone should observe on their own and let law enforcers dedicate their time and resources on bigger issues.While the police are rightly spearheading the road-safety campaign, it’s important that everyone plays their part in upholding road safety measures to help make our roads safer and more orderly.

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Road Safety is a Collective Responsibility