Unfortunately one of the major causes of holiday accidents is lack of awareness of road safety issues. With this in mind, the following are some simple road safety tips to keep in mind when you’re on holiday:

1. Walking / Pedestrian
When walking as a pedestrian in a foreign country always be aware of the traffic patterns around you. Where possible, walk on the pavement. In countries where walking on pavements is not possible, try to ensure that you walk into oncoming traffic, not with your back turned on it. Also, make sure you’re wearing reflective, bright clothing; especially if you are out walking at night. Finally, some countries have different rules regarding walking across roads at intersections and pedestrian-crossings. In this regard, do not automatically assume vehicles are going to stop for you; for example, at red-lights there may still be a right of way when turning left or right, as the case may be.

2. On the road
When traveling anywhere by road, try to avoid overloaded/overcrowded vehicles. If you think the transport may be overcrowded or overloaded, ask for a refund and/or travel on the next one. During the journey, if you believe the driver is acting recklessly, politely ask the driver to adjust his/her driving style. If they refuse, kindly ask to get off the vehicle and take their name so as to report this to the transport company.

3. Motorcycles
One of the major causes of road accidents whilst on holiday involves motorcycles – especially where the driver is not used to driving a motorcycle and where a beach is near by. If you are going to be visiting a beach resort, and you want to rent a motorcycle to get around, do not drive the motorcycle in the attire you’re going to be wearing at the beach (i.e. swimsuit). Make sure you cover up well and wear a safety helmet. Remember, tarmac on raw skin not only hurts but is likely to leave a scar that’ll not go away easily.

4. General
Aside from those road safety tips mentioned above, please keep in mind the following general road safety tips:
a. only take taxis that have safety-belts. If you’re in a country where this is literally impossible, ride in the back.
b. Avoid intoxicated/over-tired taxi drivers. In some countries, taxi drivers are required to work long hours in order to make a living with little or no legislation requiring them to take a rest period. If this applies to the place you’re visiting, make sure you avoid any taxi driver you believe to be tired or intoxicated.
c. Let someone else know where you’ll be / carry a mobile phone. If you plan a journey, make sure that others know what bus/coach, etc. you’re going to be on. Also, if possible, always carry a mobile phone – just in case you need it. In this regard, try not to take taxi rides late at night by yourself if you are unfamiliar with your surroundings.

Above all else though, stay alert at all times and don’t let a traffic accident spoil your vacation.