Which lane should you choose and what indicator should you switch on when approaching a roundabout?
The answer probably depends on your recollection of the Highway Code, studied for the test to obtain the driving licence.
But this is soon to change as Transport Malta embarks on an awareness campaign to drive home the message that road users should respect each other.
Road etiquette is one aspect of the campaign, Rispett fit-Triq, that will be accompanied by an updated version of the Highway Code drawn up by the Road Safety Council.
The campaign will include video messages that tell a social story to highlight the dangers, in a rather shocking way, of driving while texting or using a mobile phone
The campaign, which kicks off today, will start by emphasising the dangers of using mobile phones while driving. It urges motorists to keep their eyes on the road.
A spokesman for TM said mobile phone usage by drivers was by far one of the most problematic road contraventions and the cause of distraction that could cause accidents.
“The campaign will include video messages that will tell a social story to highlight the dangers, in a rather shocking way, of driving while texting or using a mobile phone,” he said.
The government has substantially increased fines for mobile phone usage while driving as it seeks to curb the abusive behaviour. The educational campaign is a follow-up to the legislative changes, the TM spokesman said.
But the over-arching campaign that will run over several months will also target road sharing between car drivers, motorcyclists, bicycle users and pedestrians, urging mutual respect.
This will be followed up by awareness-raising spots explaining basic road regulations and proper road etiquette.
One of the issues that will be highlighted is the use of the bumper-to-bumper form, which some drivers fail to fill up of their own accord as they wait for wardens or the police to turn up.
“In these circumstances such minor accidents cause traffic build-up that can be avoided if people use the bumper-to-bumper forms correctly and immediately,” the spokesman said.
kurt.sansone@timesofmalta.com