Road Safety Month 2025: Let's pledge to care and stay safe

India observes Road Safety Month every year in January to raise awareness about the importance of road safety and reduce the number of accidents on our roads. This year, the theme of Road Safety Month is "Parwaah karenge, Surakshit rahenge" which translates to "Let's take care, let's stay safe". Let’s explore and understand the importance of road safety, the common causes of accidents and what we can do to make our roads safer.

The importance of road safety

Road safety is a serious issue in India, where thousands of people lose their lives in accidents every year. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, over 1.5 lakh people died in road accidents in India in 2021 [1]. These accidents not only result in loss of life but also cause injuries, disabilities, and economic losses.

Common causes of accidents

So, what are the common causes of accidents on our roads? Some of the most common causes include:

• Speeding: Driving at high speeds increases the risk of accidents and reduces the reaction time of drivers.

• Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs the driver's judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents.

• Distracted driving: Using mobile phones or other electronic devices while driving distracts the driver and increases the risk of accidents.

• Reckless driving: Driving recklessly, such as jumping red lights, overtaking and driving on the wrong side of the road, increases the risk of accidents.

What can we do to make our roads safer?

So, what can we do to make our roads safer? Here are a few suggestions:

• Follow traffic rules: Follow traffic rules, such as wearing seatbelts, following speed limits and obeying traffic signals.

• Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings, including other drivers, pedestrians and road conditions.

• Avoid distractions: Avoid distractions while driving, such as using mobile phones or eating.

• Maintain your vehicle: Maintain your vehicle regularly, including checking tire pressure, oil levels and brakes.

Protecting your car

While following road safety rules and guidelines is essential, it's also important to protect your car in case of an accident. Consider buying a comprehensive car insurance or bike insurance that covers damages or losses to your car. A good insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind, allowing you to drive safely and confidently.

The final note

Road safety is an important issue in India and it's up to each of us to take responsibility for making our roads safer. We can all play a role in reducing the number of accidents on our roads by following these suggestions. Let's pledge to take care and stay safe and make our roads safer for everyone.