Head-on collisions are the second most deadly form of road accident. Find out the steps you should take to avoid being caught in one
Road Accidents
According to the Singapore Police Force, the number of road accidents resulting in deaths increased from 104 in 2022 to 131 in 2023 in Singapore. In the same period, fatalities increased from 108 persons in 2022 to 136 persons in 2023.
Head-on collisions, as the name implies, are collisions where the vehicle crashes into another vehicle head-to-head. As such, the force of the impact is increased with the sudden loss of speed having devastating results on the human body, leading to injuries and even death. After rollover accidents, it is the second most deadly form of road accident.
The most common and significant injury that can occur from a head-on collision is traumatic brain injury with some being more serious than others, resulting in lacerations or concussions.
Causes of head-on collisions
Head-on collisions are mostly caused by the driver crossing double white lines or white lines, and going against the direction of oncoming traffic. Chances are a driver does this to overtake a slower moving vehicle. In the case of overtaking a larger vehicle like a bus or a lorry, the driver’s vision of the oncoming traffic may be partially blocked, but this can also happen for smaller vehicles as well. The best thing to do is to be patient and obey traffic regulations. Wait for a safer opportunity to overtake when you have a better field of vison and are not breaking any traffic regulations.
Speeding around a corner when you can’t see oncoming traffic and react in time can also cause head-on collisions. Always check for blind spots and use the mirrors placed on the side of such sharp turns to see if there are vehicles approaching.
What to do if you are in a head-on collision
If you are still alert in a head-on collision, assess the situation and do not try to move the vehicle. If you are injured, stay in the vehicle as long as you are not in any danger. If you move, you could aggravate any injuries you may have. Call the emergency number 999 for the police and request for an ambulance if you or other parties are injured. Describe the incident and your condition without risking your safety. The most important thing is to be safe and get the care you need.
Precautions you can take
Here are some precautions you can take to practise safe driving:
Keep within the speed limit
Speeding reduces your ability to react. Always keep within the legal speed limits and never
drive faster than you able to react. In Singapore the speed limit on most roads is mostly 50 km/h unless otherwise stated. Note that School Zones and Silver Zones have a lower speed limit of 40km/h. Pay crucial attention on expressways as the limits can either be 80 km/h or 90 km/h.
Avoid distracted driving
Refrain from using smartphone and other mobile electronic devices until you reach your destination, or pull over in a safe and legal place if you cannot wait to talk or text. Do not watch videos on your car’s entertainment system while driving.
Keep a safe following distance
Avoid following the vehicle ahead too closely while driving. If the vehicle in front of you jam breaks, you may not be able to react in time, or the car might still roll forward after brake is applied. Furthermore, being too close to the vehicle in front limits your vision of oncoming traffic.
Avoid drink driving
The effects of alcohol can impede judgement and even cause rash or unpredictable behaviour. Always have a designated driver, hire a valet, or take public transport if you are consuming alcohol. According to the Singapore Police Force, drink driving accidents rose from 175 in 2022 to 180 in the same period in 2023. By the same token, when you are tired, your reflexes tend to be slower than normal. Ensure that you are well rested and alert before you even get into the car, or resort to the alternatives listed above.
Drive carefully and courteously
Driving aggressively in a reckless or impatient manner increases the chances of accidents happening. Always maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you. Apply the three-seconds rule on normal road conditions and double it in adverse weather or road conditions. Keep calm while driving and always practise courtesy on the road.
Wear a seatbelt properly
When you put on a seatbelt, ensure that it is snug and secure. Avoid using clips which keep the seatbelt loose as they negate the effectiveness of the seatbelt. Ensure that the passengers in your vehicle, both front and rear, are buckled up properly. Keeping the kids buckled up not only ensures their safety but also limits their movement, ensuring they do not distract you from your driving.
Regular vehicle inspections
It is good practice to ensure that the vehicle’s airbags, brakes and tyres are functioning properly by going for regular inspections. This increases the reliability and longevity of the car, identifying potential issues. It also helps save costs in the long run.
Avoid impact
Do not slam down on the brakes. Sound your horn to get the attention of the oncoming vehicle. Steering the vehicle to an empty part of the road to avoid the collision. If you’re in a left-hand driving country like Singapore, steer to the left. If you turn towards the right, you may collide head on if oncoming traffic.
Nobody wants to be in an accident, let alone a head-on collision. By having a well-maintained vehicle, obeying the traffic rules, speed limits, and practising safe driving habits, we can at least minimise the chances of it happening. _______________________________________________________________________
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The AAS Academy offers a Crash Prevention Course suitable for both novice and seasoned drivers, along with fleet managers. It is a highly interactive programme that focuses on the consequences of unsafe driving behaviours and aims to reduce the number and severity of accidents. This comprehensive programme offers engaging features such as driving scenario simulations, informative videos, and a poignant firsthand narrative depicting a fatal crash incident. Intrigued to learn more? Simply click here for additional details. The course is available in both English and Mandarin.
