A very good morning to our principal, Pn Chong Ik Poh, respectable

teachers and fellow friends. First and foremost, Id like to express my utmost
thanks to our principal for giving me the chance to speak to all of you present
here today, as the President of the schools Safety Awareness Society. With the
unexpectedly increasing number of road accidents that have been happening
recently, it is only fair to address this issue to you today. Therefore, that will be
the topic of my talk today Road Accidents and Road Safety.

Research shows that in the year 2008 itself, a number of 373 000 road
accidents with a total of 6 500 deaths were recorded worldwide. As a matter of
fact, World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that about 1.3 million
people die, and a statistic of 20 to 50 million injured every year. It is also evident
that India and China are among the top countries listed to have the most number
of road accidents cases. It is evident that this is certainly a serious matter that
should not be turned a blind eye upon.

These records have stated that over 95% of cases involv the reckless
behaviour of the driver. These foolhardy drivers often choose to drive at a high
speed, taking absolutely no care for pedestrians and traffic regulations.
Somehow, I find it weird how one can instantly turn aggressive when driving on
the road. Some have the tendency to speed. Some are all the more bold and
daring when it comes to overtaking without signaling. It is clear that this sort of
beahviour should not be taken as an example as it can not only affect the driver,
but also risk the lives of others like the pedestrians.

Aside from that, there are also a number of cases involving the influencing
of alcohol and drugs. Isnt it clear enough that one should never drive while
under such influence? Not only does it affect a persons sense of judgement and
minimizes the sense, but also risks lives. Another common example of disorderly
conduct is the use of cell phones while driving. Many seem to take this for
granted, thinking that they are in control. However, only a second of gaze taken
away from the road can lead to a life lost. Be sure to keep your eyes on the road
at all times.

In contrast with our own misconducts, terrible road conditions can also
lead to unwanted tragedies on the road. Potholes and even sharp unexpected
turns on the road can be a cause to these road accidents. The maintenance of
roads should clearly be taken into priority, and kept safe for road users at all
times. On top of that, the condition of vehicles, too, should not be taken as a light
matter. Every driver should have enough knowledge of their vehicles and should
regularly send their cars for service. This is important to keep it well-maintained,
as well as to increase the safety of the vehicle.

That being the case, Id like to advise to all you future drivers to always
keep in mind to take preventive measures. The most basic safety measure would
be to use the safety belt provided, no matter the distance youre driving to. Next
is to never use mobile phones while driving, especially in the case of texting.
Keep in mind that you should never drink and drive. Risks should never be taken
at all costs. I believe that stricter rules should be implemented to keep the
increasing number of road accidents at bay. Higher fines could also be put into
effect. Besides a more firm education on this matter, the increase of fines can
specifically be helpful to catch and lessen the number of traffic offenders.
Although road accidents are sometimes impossible to avoid, the least we can do
is to take safety precautions.

I hope that that you have gained a considerable amount of knowledge
based on my talk today, and will apply them as part of your daily life. This is all to
prepare you to be well-mannered and sensible drivers in the near future. Thank
you once again, for this opportunity.