A Maruti WagonR driver had a close shave when his car was involved in a multi-vehicle accident on National Highway 66 at Jappinamogaru, Ullal. The incident unfolded when the driver of a Ciaz car abruptly applied brakes while traveling from Thokkottu to Mangaluru. This led to a truck rear-ending the sedan. Fortunately, a WagonR behind the truck managed to halt and avoid colliding with it. However, the driver of a KSRTC bus behind the tallboy couldn’t stop on time and hit the WagonR rather forcefully.
This resulted in the WagonR being sandwiched between the truck and the bus. The driver of the WagonR, the sole occupant of the vehicle, was stuck inside the car with some injuries. However, the driver was shifted to a hospital, where he is recovering from the injuries. The Mangaluru South Traffic police are investigating the incident.
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How to Keep Yourself Safe from Heavy Vehicles on Highways
To safeguard yourself from incidents like the one mentioned above, it’s essential to practice defensive driving and follow safety guidelines on the road. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Always keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you. This gives you more time to react if the vehicle ahead suddenly stops or slows down.
- Pay Attention to the Road: Stay focused on the road ahead and avoid distractions such as texting, phone calls, or other activities that take your eyes off the road.
- Anticipate Traffic Flow: Try to anticipate changes in traffic flow and be prepared for sudden stops or slowdowns. Watch for brake lights and signals from vehicles ahead.
- Use Your Rearview Mirrors: Regularly check your rearview and side mirrors to be aware of vehicles approaching from behind. This can help you react quickly to any potential hazards.
- Maintain a Controllable Speed: Drive at a speed that allows you to maintain control of your vehicle. Avoid excessive speeding, especially in heavy traffic.
- Be Cautious in Tailgating Situations: If you find yourself behind a tailgating driver, consider changing lanes to allow them to pass. Don’t engage in aggressive driving behavior.
- Keep Your Vehicle Well-Maintained: Regularly service your vehicle to ensure it’s in good working condition. This includes checking brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components.
- Defensive Driving Course: Consider taking a defensive driving course to improve your skills and awareness on the road.
- Avoid Aggressive Drivers: Stay away from aggressive or reckless drivers. If you encounter one, create distance and avoid engaging with them.
- Seatbelts and Child Safety Seats: Ensure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts, and young children are secured in appropriate child safety seats.
- Stay Informed About Road Conditions: Be aware of weather and road conditions, especially in adverse weather like rain, fog, or snow. Adjust your driving accordingly.
- Plan Your Route: Before starting your journey, plan your route and have an idea of the roads and traffic conditions you’ll encounter.
- Stay Calm in Stressful Situations: In stressful or unexpected situations, stay calm and make rational decisions. Avoid aggressive or impulsive actions.
- Report Dangerous Drivers: If you encounter a dangerously reckless driver, report them to the local authorities or law enforcement.
- Avoid Fatigued Driving: Never drive when you’re tired or fatigued. Fatigue can impair your judgment and reaction times.
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Through careful driving, one can be ready for possible dangers. By using safety tips and staying alert while driving, you can lower the chances of getting into accidents like the one mentioned earlier.
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