A road accident is a sudden and tragic event that takes place on the road and results in injury, loss of property, or death. It is also called a street accident. In Bangladesh, road accidents have become an everyday occurrence and a national concern. Thousands die on our roads every year, and many more are injured or disabled for life.

Last year, I witnessed a terrible road accident on my way to school. A speeding bus lost control and collided violently with a rickshaw at a busy crossing near our bazaar. The rickshaw-puller was thrown away and became unconscious. Blood was flowing from his head, and the passengers were crying in fear. Some passers-by rushed forward and stopped the traffic. One kind man called an ambulance, and the injured people were taken to hospital without delay. The careless driver tried to escape, but the angry crowd caught him and handed him over to the police.

Road accidents in our country have many causes. Reckless driving and over-speeding are the main causes. Many drivers use mobile phones while driving, which causes fatal crashes. Overloaded and unfit vehicles, broken roads, and the lack of zebra crossings make the situation worse. Careless pedestrians crossing without looking also invite danger.

The effects are heart-breaking. A family may lose its only earning member in one moment. To reduce road accidents, the government must enforce traffic laws strictly. Unfit vehicles should be removed, and we should follow traffic rules and cross carefully. Life is precious, and a moment of carelessness can destroy a happy family forever.