EVEN when you are driving at high speeds on an open highway, there is always a big chance a car is going to tail-gate you and even flash its headlights.
Close to 100 per cent of the time, this car is either a Perodua Myvi, Bezza or Proton Saga.
I know the Myvi is dubbed the 'king of the road' while a close competitor would be the Bezza and Saga which are also often seen 'flying' down the highways.
Statistics by the Vehicle Theft and Accident Reduction Council (VTAREC) revealed that last year, the Myvi topped the list of vehicles most involved in accidents, followed closely by the Saga.
However, despite these alarming statistics, drivers of these cars do not seem the least perturbed.
Studies consistently show that human error is the leading cause of car crashes, with estimates ranging from 94% to 98%.
Common human factors include distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving (alcohol or drugs), fatigue, and inadequate following distance.
Drivers of such cars must firstly understand the capabilities of their vehicles and that such cars like Myvis, Sagas and Bezzas are not built to run at speeds of 160kmh and in some cases, even above that.
They must realise that while they can continue flooring the accelerator, problems surface when one tries to avoid the car in front or in an emergency.
These cars are not equipped with such sophisticated, high-tech braking or manoeuvring systems to avoid collisions.
While you may think you are a good driver, sound knowledge of your car's capabilities and limitations is also vital.
It may give you a feeling of pride or greatness when you brag about how you tail-gated a Lamborghini or Ferrari at 160kmh, but the fact remains that you may not even live to speak about it.
From my personal view, I feel close to 80 per cent of accidents on Malaysian roads are caused by drivers who lack a proper understanding of their cars, while the rest are caused by distractions like the handphone.
The human factor continues to be the main contributor to the high rate of accidents in our country, and it is up to each individual to take steps to put an end to it.
Peroduas and Protons are not Lamborghinis in sheep clothing and it is time owners of such cars realise that and drive their vehicles within the built specifications. - June 5, 2025
Daniel Tan YT is a reader of The Vibes
