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People in general respond better to positive and constructive messages and motorists are no exception to this. Road safety campaigns that have a negative tone may not go well with people. Instead of telling people what they should not do, an effective campaign would promote positive behaviour.  

2.   Humour  can get the message noticed

One of the simple ways to make road safety campaigns effective is to use humour to deliver the key message. Humorous messages are not only received positively but they are also easily noticed. Often when campaigns highlight risky driving or road use behaviours, people tend to get defensive. However,  people are more likely to be receptive to humorous messages as they seem less patronising to people.

3.   Scaring people may not necessarily be effective

Often it is assumed that people will get scared on seeing  fear-based road safety campaigns. However, fear-based campaigns that use graphic images can increase peopleâ€�"�s tendency to behave riskily on the road. On the other hand, it has been found that the impact of non-fear based campaigns is more significant in changing public attitudes towards road safety. It is therefore important to understand public perception to improve the effectiveness of campaigns that aim to improve road user behaviour.

4.     Effective safety campaigns have a multi-pronged approach 

Speed is one of the most common reasons for accidents on highways. It is easier to maintain high speeds on highways because roads are wider and traffic is generally light. However, driving at a high speed can be dangerous especially on highways that have many curves. It is for this reason there are set speed limits for highways. Drivers should stay within the set speed limit even when the roads are empty.

Note: Drivers must assess the road conditions and drive accordingly. If the roads are wet roads or theres low visibility, drivers must slow down and drive cautiously.

2.    Switching lanes

One of the common mistakes that drivers make on highways is switching lanes too frequently. When drivers change lanes, they must recognise the speed differences between the lanes and accordingly drive. If drivers need to change their lanes, they must make sure to give the appropriate signals and keep an eye on changing speed.

3.    Overtaking heavy vehicles

Heavy vehicles carrying goods are driven at high speeds on highways. Drivers must avoid overtaking heavy vehicles. The consequences of an accident involving heavy vehicles tend to be serious.  Drivers must wait for a signal from them in case they want to overtake. Drivers must be extremely cautious of the distance they maintain while overtaking heavy vehicles as they tend to be quite long.

4.    Not reading the road signs

Highways have many important road signs pertaining to speed limits, intersections ahead, turns and bridges. While on the highway, drivers should always read these signs so that they know they are driving within the speed limit and they adjust their speed for intersections, turns and bridges ahead.

5.    Not making pit stops

Highway driving can be tiresome and therefore, drivers must stop at regular intervals. Accidents due to driver fatigue are among the common causes for accidents on highways. Drivers must not push themselves to make up time.  The continuous driving can lead to fatigue. Drivers must take breaks and keep themselves hydrated. They should also keep switching between recirculating and fresh-air modes so that a change in temperature helps them to stay more alert. If drivers are feeling drowsy, they must take a quick nap. If drivers are accompanied by fellow drivers, taking turns to drive can help reduce fatigue.

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