KABIKA SONGOLO
Lusaka
OVER the past few years, online hailing services have transformed the way people move around cities in Zambia. With just a tap on a smartphone, passengers can request a ride from the comfort of their homes, workplaces, or even on the roadside.
This digital transport revolution has brought remarkable convenience and created employment opportunities for hundreds of people. However, as the number of online hailing drivers continues to grow, so do the risks associated with unsafe driving practices.
Online hailing drivers play a crucial role in ensuring road safety. Each trip they undertake carries not just passengers, but the responsibility to uphold the highest standards of safety, courtesy and professionalism.
Unfortunately, many crashes involving online hailing vehicles have been linked to risky behaviours such as mobile phone use while driving, ferrying unsecured passengers, dangerous or careless driving and the obstruction of roadways.
Addressing these habits is vital insofar as saving lives and maintaining the reputation of the industry.
One of the most common and dangerous habits is using mobile phones while driving. Because online hailing drivers rely heavily on mobile applications for navigation, trip confirmations and passenger communication, they are at constant risk of distraction.
A few seconds of looking at a phone instead of the road can be enough to cause a serious crash. Distracted driving reduces reaction time, impairs judgement and takes the driver’s focus away from the surroundings. To avoid this, drivers are encouraged to use hands-free devices or properly mounted phone holders and they should avoid touching their gadgets when driving. Calls or messages should be attended to only when the vehicle is safely parked.
Remember, no trip or text is worth a life.
Another worrying behaviour is ferrying unsecured passengers. Seat belts are one of the simplest and most effective tools for saving lives on the road. Yet, some online hailing drivers allow passengers to travel without fastening their seat belts. When an individual is not wearing a seat belt in a crash, there is an 80 percent chance of them being a fatality or ending up with serious injuries. In the event of a crash, an unbelted passenger can be thrown forward with great force, causing severe injuries to Promoting safe driving for online hailing driversthemselves or others. Both drivers and passengers must take responsibility for ensuring that everyone in the vehicle is properly secured before departure. Safety should always come first, even if it means losing a trip or taking an extra minute before driving off.
Dangerous and careless driving also remains a serious problem. Overspeeding, tailgating, ignoring traffic lights, or overtaking in unsafe conditions are all examples of risky behaviours that contribute to road crashes.
Some drivers, in an effort to complete more trips or meet time targets, end up endangering their passengers and other road users. Speed limits exist for a reason and are designed to protect everyone. A responsible driver understands the importance of reaching their destination safely.
Obstruction of roadways by taxi-hailing drivers, such as stopping illegally in traffic lanes or at busy intersections to wait for or drop off passengers, is another challenge that needs to be addressed. This practice not only violates traffic laws but also undermines the professional image of the service, leading to frustration among other drivers and pedestrians. We must prioritise public safety and traffic flow; therefore, drivers are strongly urged to utilise designated loading zones, legally permissible parking spots, or pull completely out of the flow of traffic when conducting business.
By adhering to proper traffic regulations, drivers can ensure a smoother, safer and more respectable service for themselves and the entire community.
The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) continues to advocate for a culture of safe and responsible driving among all motorists, including online hailing drivers. The agency urges drivers to view road safety not as a legal requirement but as a moral duty. Every driver should aim to protect himself, passengers and other road users.
Online hailing companies also have a key role to play.
They can enhance road safety by offering training programmes for their drivers, enforcing safety guidelines within their platforms and using technology to monitor risky behaviours such as speeding or phone use during trips.
Creating incentive systems that reward safe drivers could go a long way in promoting positive habits. When safety becomes part of a company’s culture, it benefits both drivers and customers.
As road users, passengers too have the right and responsibility to demand safe services. They should speak up when a driver overspeeds, uses the phone while driving or ignores road rules. By reminding a driver to focus, a passenger could save a life and perhaps even their own. Silence can be costly.
To promote safer driving among online hailing drivers, the following simple tips can make a big difference:
*Always focus on the road – avoid phone distractions.
*Do not exceed the speed limit.
*Do not stop at undesignated drop-off/ pick-up points.
*Do not block roadways.
*Ensure all passengers wear seat belts before departure.
*Keep your vehicle in roadworthy condition.
*Rest when tired – fatigue can impair your judgement.
*Respect other road users, including pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists.
In conclusion, road safety is a shared responsibility. Each online hailing driver has the power to make Zambia’s roads safer by adopting responsible driving habits.
By avoiding distractions, securing passengers, and driving carefully, drivers not only protect themselves and their passengers but also contribute to building a safer transport system for everyone.
Online taxi services have made travelling easier and more affordable. Therefore, constant and regular engagement with drivers through capacity building and knowledge sharing is vital in reducing road traffic crashes and making our roads safer for all users.
Be Road Smart, Life is Precious!
