Did you know that a staggering 90% of the information required for safe driving comes from our eyes? Maintaining strong eyesight is not just about personal well-being; it's a critical factor in ensuring the safety of everyone on the road.
In a recent report from the Uganda Traffic Police, a total of 432 accidents were documented, with 97 proving fatal, 202 classified as serious, and 133 considered minor. Among the 424 victims, 100 lost their lives, and 324 sustained injuries. Disturbingly, 23% of drivers, nearly a quarter, faced challenges in seeing effectively due to eyesight issues while driving.
Taking your eyes off the road, even for a moment, whether it's texting, adjusting the radio, or engaging with passengers, poses significant dangers. Various factors contribute to the multitude of traffic accidents occurring annually in Uganda and worldwide. The prevalent causes in Uganda include human error, excessive speeding, reckless driving, inadequately maintained roads, untrained drivers, and mechanically unsound vehicles, among others.
In continuation of their commitment to promoting responsible road behavior and safe driving culture in Africa, especially Uganda, Lapaire, the Pan African Eyewear Brand, is set to launch the "Clear Vision, Zero Accidents" campaign.
Following their collaboration with the Uganda Traffic Police during the road safety week in November 2022, this initiative extends its impact across five West African countries and Uganda in East Africa. The Pan African campaign involves strategic partnerships with gas stations, delivery companies, driving schools, and social media influencers. The overarching goal is to reduce the frequency of road accidents and associated casualties by addressing vision-related issues, advocating safe driving practices, and fostering safer road environments. This campaign seeks to guarantee that motorists possess optimal vision, empowering them to make the right decisions while on the road.
According to Oliver Mwanko Wambile, the Public Relations and Communications Officer for Lapaire East Africa, nearly one-quarter of drivers encounter vision challenges while driving. To make a significant impact on the community, he urges all road users, especially those experiencing vision difficulties such as sensitivity to light, eye strain, or blurry vision, to visit any Lapaire branch for comprehensive free eye tests.
Road Safety Week, observed during the third week of November each year, presents an ideal opportunity for communities and organizations to actively participate in road safety initiatives.
In 2023, the week-long event is scheduled to take place from November 19th to November 25th. Lapaire's "Clear Vision, Zero Accidents" campaign aligns seamlessly with this global initiative, contributing to the overarching mission of creating safer roads for everyone.
