In a tragic turn of events, a two-year-toddler was unknowingly run over by his own family car on August 30. The driver, sadly, was none other than his dad. This is a grim reminder that road safety rules for passengers in vehicles – especially children – should always be taken seriously.
Toddler Gets Run Over by Car
According to the New Straits Times, two-year-old Muhammad Rayyan Rizqi Mohd Fakhrul Zaman had just finished dinner with his family in Jalan Kota Baru, Malaysia. Once they went back to the car park, Muhammad’s father, 38, sat his son on the front seat after taking the wheel.
Kota Baru district police chief, Assistant Commissioner Ismail Mat Sidik was able to find out exactly what happened. “The boy was leaning against the door. However, his mother then opened the door from the outside, which caused the boy to fall out of the car,” he explains.
The car accidentally jumped forward, leading to the two-year-old’s tragic end. | Image source: New Straits Times
The father then panicked, stepping on the accelerator by mistake. The car jerked forward, and ran over the little boy.
Unfortunately, the two-year-old suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. His body has been transferred to the Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II (HRPZ II) for a post-mortem assessment.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the child’s family.
Road Safety Rules for Passengers in Vehicles: Tips for Parents
In addition to never allowing young children to sit in the front seat, and always ensuring they are in age- and weight-appropriate car seats, here are some other safety tips to keep in mind.
Check your vehicle before you leave
- Take special care to check all around your vehicle for people walking, other vehicles backing up behind you and any other obstructions. Check carefully for children and pets around the car. Don’t forget the trunk, backseat, and the front and back of your car, too.
- While parking/reversing the car, make sure you check the rear view and side mirrors, and over your shoulder. Also, check your blind spot. Signal appropriately. It is safer to have the hazard lights on while reversing.
- If you’re backing out of a driveway or a parking lot, make sure to have full view of any children in the area. Younger kids also have a higher risk of being run over by a backing car, since it’s hard to see them when they’re near your vehicle. What’s more, this is especially true if you’re driving a pick-up truck, or an SUV.
Parenting tips for children nearby or in cars
- Do not leave your child unattended near cars or vehicles.
- Constantly remind your kids about the importance of following traffic rules and keeping away from cars, even if these cars are parked.
- Use child seats for children up until they are four years of age.
- For children aged 13 years and below, make sure to seat them at the back seats for safety
- Make sure to use the proper car seats that are appropriate to your child’s age and size
- Never leave your child unattended inside your car. If you have to go on an errand, bring your child with you. Do not leave them alone in the car.
Always remember to give age-appropriate car seats to your children, parents. | Image source: stock photo
Be mindful of accident-prone areas
- The driveways of homes and places like pre-schools are high risk accident zones for kids. Please be extra cautious when in these areas. Many cars are fitted with reversing cameras but if your vehicle does not have one, it’s worthwhile investing in one, especially if your child normally likes playing in the driveway of your home.
- Be very careful during busy times, schedule changes and periods of crisis or holidays, as these are the times when tragedies can occur.
- When driving through residential neighbourhoods and school zones, remember to be extra careful. Don’t speed!
Safety within the car: Lock the car
- “Look before you lock.” Make it a habit to always open the back door to check the back seat of your vehicle before you step out of it. Ensure you are not leaving a child behind. Place an item of importance – like your handbag – in the back seat, as a reminder if needed.
- Keep your car locked at all times, even if it’s in your own driveway or garage. Never let your children play with your car keys.
- If your car has a child lock feature, it’s best to use it. That way, your child won’t accidentally open the doors from the inside.
- Be mindful and vigilant. These days, the mind can be constantly fatigued and stressed and unable to focus on any one thing – this is especially true for parents. An overtaxed brain can fail you, so rest and prepare well before a long drive. Try your best to remain alert even when you are in a rush because accidents can happen when you least expect it.
References: New Straits Times
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