The number of car accidents always goes up during Ramadan. Fasting from dawn until sunset can have many effects such as dizziness and dehydration.
We want you to be safe on the road during Ramadan, so we have compiled a list of tips that will help you avoid danger.
Identify when You’re Tired
The root of most car accidents during Ramadan is tiredness. It’s paramount that you know when you don’t have the energy to finish your journey.
There are several signs that you have to look out for while on the road:
- You can’t remember the last kilometers you’ve driven. If your last memory was a while back, it is a sign that you are not paying enough attention to the road.
- You constantly drift between lanes. If you cannot drive straight, it means you are exhausted.
- You feel sluggish or can’t keep your head up. Many drivers around you may feel the same way. This symptom will affect your driving and put you at risk.
- You keep nodding off and jolting back to reality. If this happens to you even a single time, you are too tired to be driving. You need to be able to concentrate on the road.
If you encounter any of these symptoms, it’s best that you pull over and have a quick nap. We know that you want to get home as fast as possible.
However, staying safe on the road during Ramadan is paramount. While tired, you may not recognize the danger in time or even fall asleep at the wheel.
How to Avoid Danger while Driving
It’s best if you don’t drive while tired altogether. With a bit of planning, this is easy. You could even use public transport during Ramadan to stay safe.
If that is not an option for you, these tips will help:
- Start your journey early. To avoid traffic and unnecessary risks such as speeding or dangerous turns, leave sooner than others. If possible, take other, less used, routes than your usual ones. The fewer drivers around you, the safer you are.
- Keep a close eye on the road and the weather. Even if you are the only one on the road, always pay attention to road signs and the weather. Drive accordingly.
- Take a nap before driving if necessary. Finding a spot to pull over to sleep may be difficult at times. If you are tired and need to hit the road, take a short nap right before doing it.
- Carpool when possible. If you know someone who makes the same journey as you, invite them to share a car. You can take turns while driving. This way, both of you get enough rest and stay safe on the road during Ramadan.
- Stick to a schedule. Always get enough sleep. You will have more energy during the day. Light exercises are also beneficial if you find the time.
Following these principles takes no effort, and you will be much safer while driving.
[Image Credits: Mohd Tarmizi]
Drive Cautiously to Be Safe on the Road during Ramadan
Even if you are well rested, other drivers may not be, and that can be dangerous for them as well as you. Keep your car clean and headlights on to be noticeable.
Stay alert and keep an eye out for tired drivers around you. If someone loses control of their car, you need to be ready to swerve around them.
Ramadan is a time of solemnity and prayer. Be careful on the road so you can focus on what truly matters.
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