Tue Dec 24 13:16:06 UTC 2024: ## GITAM University Hosts Road Safety Awareness Program Amidst Alarming Accident Statistics
**Visakhapatnam, December 24, 2024** – GITAM Deemed to be University held a road safety awareness program today, addressing the high number of road accidents in India. Experts highlighted that India sees over 450,000 road accidents annually, with young adults (18-25) disproportionately affected. A key contributor, according to Dr. K. Anil Kumar of the KGH Traumatic Brain Injury Pilot Project, is overspeeding and a lack of helmet usage, with an AIIMS study revealing 40% of pillion riders involved in accidents weren’t wearing helmets.
Dr. Mohan Maharaj, Head of Emergency and Critical Care at Medicover Hospitals, emphasized the devastating emotional and financial consequences for families affected by road accidents. He provided crucial first-aid advice, stressing the importance of not moving injured individuals unless absolutely necessary and ensuring proper neck and spine support. The experts also clarified legal protections for good Samaritans who assist at accident scenes.
GITAM’s In-Charge Vice-Chancellor, Y. Gowtham Rao, urged students to prioritize road safety, announcing that the university is now mandating helmet and seatbelt use on campus. The program served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for increased road safety awareness and adherence to traffic regulations.
First Piper 