Tailgating, careless driving the top causes of festive season crashes

 

Tailgating, or following too closely behind another vehicle, was the main cause of traffic accidents during festive seasons last year, said traffic police. (Freepik pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

Tailgating (or following another vehicle too closely) was the main cause of road accidents during festive seasons last year, according to federal traffic police chief Yusri Hassan Basri.

Another cause identified by traffic police studies was careless driving, leading to the vehicles skidding, Yusri said, according to Sinar Harian.

Motorists who were unaware of vehicles or objects at the front or side of their vehicles were the third-highest cause of accidents, he said.

“Another factor among the main contributors was being careless when exiting or entering junctions, or when trying to overtake vehicles or change lanes,” he was quoted as saying.

Yusri did not disclose the exact number of crashes caused by tailgaters or careless driving.

Under the Road Transport Act, reckless and dangerous driving is punishable with a jail term of up to five years and a fine of between RM5,000 and RM15,000 for the first offence.

Careless and inconsiderate driving is punishable by a fine of between RM4,000 and RM10,000 and up to one year jail.

Traffic police will be carrying out a road safety operation from March 29-April 3 ahead of the Hari Raya holidays, with almost 7,000 policemen on duty.

Yusri said 25 hotspots and 46 black spots had been identified on major highways. Continuous monitoring will be carried out to assist road users in case of vehicle breakdowns or emergencies.

A total of 407 hotspots and 76 black spots have been identified on federal, state and municipal roads, he said, Bernama reported.

He also announced the implementation of Op Lancar from today until April 6 to ensure smooth traffic flow during the festive season.

Police would monitor traffic congestion on highways and roads, with aerial support from the police air unit. - FMT