Fatal CTE Accident - Some tips to stay safe

I read with sadness on the tragedy of not 1 but 4 people being killed in an accident on CTE on the early morning of Aug 9. 

You can read more about what happened here 

http://singaporeseen.stomp.com.sg/singaporeseen/this-urban-jungle/cte-accident-driver-who-rammed-into-four-people-arrested-licence-suspended

Having seen so many cases, and no matter if you are the driver or passengers of a stalled / broken down car to observe some safe practice.

If you have to stop your vehicle along the road, especially an expressway, these are some of the things that I would do.

1) If you have a hazard triangle, place them at least some distance away from your car. It will warn other drivers.  This is especially important if you are in bends where the bends hides your car, If you do not have a hazrard triangle, use something visible, a box, a pail (i buy a light colour one to increase visibility)  or anything that can able to let the other drivers notice that there is some abnormality in the road ahead.

Of course, while putting the warning, be on high alert youself.

2)  For passengers in the car, please get out of the car. It is not the time to enjoy the cool air from the aircon now. For people who think you are safe inside the car, please do not forget the possibility that if a big truck comes, the car cannot protect you. You can buy another car again but you can't buy your life. This is not your favourite game on your phone.

You should also stand a distance IN FRONT of your car so that if anything happens, the car should protect you from the first impact. I seen so many people standing behind their vehicles as if like they are trying to protect their vehicle.  However, do not stand too far away from your car till it cannot shield you.

3) For drivers, a few things to note. Firstly, please put handbrake to maximum lock so that the car doesnt free wheel. Steering wheel should be pointed straight and not in the direction of where the passengers are standing. I would point it slightly outwards toward the road. Determine the situation of your position and decide whether it is safe enough for you to do the necessary actions or wait for the tow-truck. E.g. if it is in the blind spot or it is the outer wheel puncture, you might just want to wait for the tow truck.

Also, as a driver myself, I think you have the responsibility to ensure your passengers are safe. See 2 and get them to safe areas if you have passengers.

With many errant drivers around, it is not only drive safe but stay safe as well. Sound familar?