Disobeying traffic rules has become our habits.Many believe it is better to be sorry and pay a fine than being safe.We Indians are the oldest and the greatest civilization in the world.We take orders from no one.We do what we want as we know the best, or that’s what we think.

we should respect traffic rules.

Traffic signs are the silent speakers on the road. Be it the person behind the wheel or a pedestrian, having a sound knowledge about road safety is absolutely necessary for all before hitting the roads.

Traffic signs give information about the road conditions ahead, provide instructions to be followed at the major crossroads or junctions, warn or guide drivers, and ensure proper functioning of road traffic. Being unaware of road signs is akin to throwing caution to the wind. It can lead to loss of life and property with the traffic signs and symbols before acquiring a driving license in India.

Road safety signs are primarily of three types:

1.Mandatory Signs:

These signs are used to ensure free movement of traffic and make the road users cognizant of certain laws and regulations, restrictions and prohibitions. Violation of these signs is an offense, as per law.

2.Cautionary Signs:

These signs make the road users conscious of hazardous conditions on the road beforehand. The drivers, accordingly, take necessary actions to handle the situation.

3.Informatory Signs:

These signs guide the road users about destinations, distance, alternative routes, and prominent locations like food joints, public toilets, nearby hospitals, etc.

Road Safety Education

Education about road safety is often provided in schools, colleges, workplaces, clubs and public places. However, there could be other ways to create mass awareness.

• Encourage parents to help children learn preventive measures in real time.
• Share online content with peers.
• Show presentations on road safety and negative aspects of road accidents in the classrooms.
• Distribute booklets and pamphlets in schools.
• Educate teachers about the basic laws and regulations on the road.

Celebrating Road Safety

Every year, prominent metro cities of India celebrate the road safety week to promote road safety measures. During the entire week, the transport departments of various states create awareness through community building process in schools, colleges, offices and on roads. They also sensitize people about the outcome of drunken driving, high-speed driving, the importance of wearing the helmet for bikers and seat belts for four-wheeler drivers. At times, they choose themes to communicate to the masses.