| Azlan Othman |
FOLLOWING five car accidents within a day across the country last Monday which also led to one fatality, the National Road Safety Council (NRSC) advised road users to adopt a more cautious and prudent attitude while driving.
Brunei is witnessing frequent road accidents of late due to the uncertain weather conditions with especially continual rains, Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications, told the media yesterday, in his capacity as the Chairman of the NRSC.
The Bulletin reported yesterday that a local man was killed in a road accident in Kampong Kiudang in the Tutong District when the car he was driving crashed into a road divider before landing in the Sungai Simut in the village.
A passenger in the vehicle sustained injuries. Initial investigations by the Tutong Police Station found that the road was wet during the time of the accident.
Meanwhile, a local mother and her 10-year-old son were rushed to Suri Seri Begawan Hospital in the Belait District for treatment after the vehicle they were travelling veered off the road and landed in a drain along Jalan Anduki.
Haji Azhar added that for the safety of all road users, motorists are reminded to be more responsible while driving by adhering to traffic rules and to be always cautious especially when it is raining and while driving on waterlogged roads.
Motorists are also warned that they should pay attention while passing through risk areas such as U-turns, narrow streets and accident prone areas.
“In uncertain weather conditions, we need to make sure the vehicle is in good condition including ensuring the vehicle’s tyres are not bald and not modified. One should also recite prayers before commencing the journey,” the permanent secretary said.
The NRSC urged all motorists and passengers to always wear safety belts. They are also advised not to use mobile phones while on the road.
All these practices and advices should be followed not only while driving in this country, but also in neighbouring countries.
On the issue of images of car accidents making rounds in the social media on Monday, Haji Azhar urged netizens to respect the victims and their family members and avoid making assumptions on the accidents.
“Ethics must be upheld and we should not expose the victim. We have to show a responsible behaviour,” he said.
Haji Azhar also said car dealers also play a crucial role in teaching drivers on road safety. Customers should be made aware of the specifications of the cars they buy, especially those with high capacity and capability.
Also present at the event was Dr Haji Supry bin Haji Awang Ladi, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications.
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