For many years, traffic accidents have remained one of the most pressing issues in Vietnam. Each day, minor and major collisions occur on the roads, particularly involving motorcycles, which account for the highest percentage of vehicles in traffic. Tragically, many accidents stem not only from the direct dangerous actions of drivers but also from the indifference and apathy of those participating in traffic around them. This occurs when individuals focus solely on their own journey, disregarding imminent danger, or treating wrongful behaviors as an everyday occurrence. This silence, neglect, and shrug of resignation contribute to an unsafe and risky traffic environment for everyone.
One of the clearest manifestations of this indifference is the readiness of many to downplay the dangerous actions of others. When witnessing a motorcyclist speeding, running a red light, or swerving recklessly through traffic, many simply shake their heads and move on. This silence creates a feeling of "normalizing wrong," preventing offenders from feeling admonished or pressured by the community. Such apathy makes the traffic environment chaotic because unchecked violations quickly spread, forming poor habits within the community.
Another cause is the deeply ingrained "mind your own business" culture among many. When encountering a dangerous situation on the road, most people often choose to avoid it rather than warn others or proactively report it to authorities.
This lack of connection and responsibility among road users increases the risk of collisions by the minute. A timely warning, a honk to remind someone, or a report to the authorities could prevent many accidents. Furthermore, in situations where accidents have already occurred, many witnesses appear hesitant, even indifferent.
The fear of implication, misunderstanding, being blamed, or simply "not wanting trouble" causes many to stand by or pass by. The sight of an injured person lying in the road, surrounded by vehicles hastily swerving to avoid them to get to work on time, is no longer uncommon. This apathy not only delays emergency aid to victims—a critical factor in survival during the golden minutes—but also fosters a cold and inhumane response to traffic accidents.
Indifference also stems from a habit of underestimating the danger posed by motorcycles. As the most common vehicle, many assume that any accidents would only be minor scrapes. In reality, the slower the speed, the more complacent people become; not wearing helmets, using phones while driving, carrying three or four people, or driving in the wrong lane are all behaviors that can lead to severe consequences. The repercussions of such complacency affect not only the violators but can also endanger innocent individuals who are following traffic laws.
Another factor exacerbating the accident situation is the lack of education on community awareness in traffic. While many countries consider reminding others on the road a normal, even encouraged, action, in Vietnam, many react negatively when warned by others. A simple suggestion like "Please slow down" or "Don't speed like that" can be met with an annoyed look, rude words, or an argument. This discourages many from offering feedback, leading to prolonged silence and a collective acceptance of wrong as an inevitability.
To change this situation, the first step is to alter individual perception. Traffic is not a personal matter but a shared environment where every action, however small, can affect others. Community awareness is the foundation for building a safe traffic culture. When everyone is willing to warn, advise, or support each other in dangerous situations, road risks will significantly decrease.
Additionally, authorities need to strictly enforce regulations against violations, especially subjective errors such as running red lights, driving the wrong way, and swerving. Penalties must be sufficiently deterrent, because when people lack awareness, the law must replace that awareness with sanctions. Moreover, traffic education needs to be implemented early and continuously. Students, workers, drivers, and even licensed individuals all need to participate in regular traffic safety education programs. This is not just about learning laws but about learning to respect others, and cultivating an attitude of sharing and responsibility toward the community.
A civilized society cannot be formed if apathy persists in public spaces. Traffic accidents, whether major or minor, are the result of a long chain of incorrect behaviors and deeply ingrained indifference. Each accident is not merely a cold statistic but the pain of a family, a loss to society, and a reminder that we need to change today. When everyone cares for those sharing the road ahead, and when every action stems from caution and responsibility, Vietnam's traffic can become safer, more civilized, and more humane.
Reader Thu Sang
