If you have a first-generation Perodua Alza, here is a reminder of what not to do.
There’s a new video making its way around social media showing a couple in a first generation Perodua Alza. In the video, the lady lies down across the Alza’s front row bench on the driver’s lap while the car is being driven at speed. It’s a rather brief video that shows her only lay down for a few seconds before getting back up. Even though we can assume she puts her safety belt back on, we have to address the big safety issue in case it isn’t obvious to the younger (or perhaps older) generation of drivers. This sort of thing may seem fun or interesting to do, but a stunt like this is not worth the risk.
Now, you may think that we’re over-reacting a bit to a simple stunt pulled, but it’s this sort of thing that becomes trendy overnight and the next thing you know all the kids with Alzas are doing it. Just like sticking your kid out through the sunroof while you drive, it looks fun, but please remember that you, the driver are ultimately responsible for the life and safety of everyone in your car and other road users in your vicinity as well. There’s a reason why it’s not a human right to drive, and you must be licensed. It’s because society has deemed you to have the necessary restraint, knowledge and capabilities to do the task. Don’t abuse it by doing dumb stuff like this.
In case you need a reminder of just how dangerous a stunt like this can be, consider running into your nearest wall at full speed. Chances are the fastest you’re going to get is maybe 10-15km/h and it’s probably going to hurt like hell if you actually went through with it. Now imagine what happens when your Alza goes from even 50km/h or 60km/h to 0km/h in an instant. The airbags and seatbelts should help reduce the worst of the damage, but what happens to your loved one who’s unbuckled and lying down for your 15 seconds of fame? Don’t risk it. Even briefly. That is all. Speaking from the point of view of someone who has lost a friend who did not buckle up. Also speaking from the point of view of a former first generation Perodua Alza owner who enjoyed the legroom but never did anything as daft as this.
