OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Over the last several months Osan has seen a developing trend of unsafe transportation practices. Unfortunately some of these have injured our airmen and damaged government vehicles. The problems involve all three of our main ways of getting around: motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. 

The statistics show that individuals in 7th Air Force are experiencing a GOV accident every couple days as well as various POV incidents. The majority of these accidents appear to be related to two things: improper backing techniques and unfamiliarity with the vehicle being driven. 

Defensive driving techniques and using spotters while backing up will prevent many of these mishaps. Drivers also need to be extra cautious operating larger vehicles near fences, obstructions and in smaller parking areas. 

The next most common problem is watching for others on the road who are not behind the wheel. I'm referring to pedestrians and bicycles and drivers need to get in the habit of watching for them. As the spring weather improves, more and more joggers, walkers, bicycle and motorcycle riders will be sharing the roads with you. 

As an avid cyclist I have observed a bothersome trend developing of drivers not looking for bikes and motorcycles before pulling out into traffic and pedestrians stepping into crosswalks without checking for traffic. Yes, pedestrians have the right of way but remember the rules of physics; vehicles can't stop on a dime. 

Drivers should take the couple of extra seconds to ensure they aren't about to endanger a fellow Airman's life before entering traffic. 

Bicycle riders must ride defensively. To begin with, bicyclists need to have the discipline to ride predictably by following traffic laws. When approaching intersections, expect cars not to see you and be ready to react. Riding further from the curb when approaching crosswalks may provide the additional time and distance to react to pedestrians that may enter the crosswalk unexpectedly. At the same time, don't forget there could be vehicle traffic behind you so be aware of the signals you are giving them. 

Here's the bottom line, to improve our traffic safety record drivers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and bike riders need to all pay a little closer attention to their environment. These two to three seconds can be the key to preventing an accident that damages important equipment or worse, destroys a life or career.