BEZBJEDNA VOŽNJA U DOBA COVID-19 - ODGOVORNOST NA BEZBJEDNOST SAOBRAĆAJA JE NA PRVOM MJESTU/SAFE DRIVING IN THE AGE OF COVID-19 - THE RESPONSIBILITY OF TRAFFIC SAFETY COMES FIRST

Abstract

Traffic injuries and the consequences of traffic accidents represent a great burden on the health system, even in the quietest times. In Republika Srpska, more than 100 people lose their lives every year, and over 2,700 are slightly or severely injured in traffic accidents. They are one of the leading causes of injuries and deaths of young and working population. At a time when our health care system is making extraordinary efforts to prevent the spread of Covid-19 virus infection, the last thing our health care institutions need are additional injuries, especially severe injuries such as those that most often occur in traffic accidents. All those who are wondering how they can help the health system in the fight against this virus, can start with the easiest procedures, and that is to relieve the health system from taking care of those conditions that can be prevented by behavior, such as traffic injuries, and very simple procedures, such as safe driving. Attention to the driver is always necessary, but during the current global public health crisis, it is more important than ever. Fastening seat belts, respecting speed limits, using helmets, avoiding mobile phones and avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol and other psychoactive substances are behaviors that can help save the lives of drivers and their passengers and reduce the impact of Covid-19. However, despite all the recommendations for safe driving, keep in mind that the most important thing at this time is to respect the recommendations of epidemiologists and reduce our stay outside to a minimum.