[[*Endless Road_______Endless Journey]]*

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

[[Peace on the Roads]]

Singaporean road users can be really hard to fathom.

Was driving in the wee hours this morning, waiting to make an U-turn. The traffic light which was like 100 metres in front had turned red, there was no vehicles. So, I started making my turn. Then comes a bike travelling at what must be at least 100km/h, beating the red light, heading straight towards me and causing me to slam on my brakes.

Not only that, I earned a stare from him as well, trying to imply that I wasn't giving way.

Hello, what the f**k is wrong with you, man? I wasn't the one who beat a bloody red light and exceeding like twice the road speed limit. Besides, you should freaking thank whichever god you are praying to because I was just about to make the turn, not in the midst of it.

It gets sad when near-accidents like these create a very negative image for bike riders. I ride and drive, so perhaps I personally feel I can understand both the perspectives of a rider and a driver. Many times on the roads, it's only a matter of courtesy and give-and-take, not about the skills and technique of the person behind the steering wheel or handlebar. Not to mention obeying traffic rules as far as possible.

It's not that I never speed. I do so very occasional, but never at the compromise of my own safety. I don't do 100km/h on a 50km/h road with traffic lights. I don't try to challenge a corner. And I never tailgate a vehicle, making damn sure I give myself enough braking distance. It's really about being defensive. And being safe.

You might be rushing home to catch that 9pm drama on tv, not wanting to miss the opening theme song. You might be going to be a few minutes late of an important meeting. You could be dying to take a piss in the toilet. But what are all these compared to compromising your own life and endangering others? If you know you have a tendency to be late, then leave early. If you are afraid you might wanna shit while on your way home, then do it before starting the engine. Things like these, no one will stop you from doing.

Really hope to see people driving and riding more safely on the roads. When the feeling of regret sets in, there's never enough, or any, time to ractify the situation.

And happy National Day to the country and everyone!

[[Walking Alone On This Endless Road]]*|1:01 pm|