• Tuesday, September 29,2015

11 Dead and 84 Injured from Traffic Accidents in the UAE during Eid Holiday

According the to the nationwide statistics released by the Traffic Coordination Directorate General at the Ministry of Interior, 11 people have died and 84 people have been hurt, with injuries ranging from mild to severe, as a result of traffic accidents during the Eid Al Adha Holiday. The detailed statistics disclosed that a total of 38 accidents occurred between the 23 and 26 September, 2015.

Brigadier Ghaith Hassan Al Zaabi, Director General of Traffic Coordination at the Ministry of Interior, said that the failure to abide by the rules and regulations of traffic led to the occurrence of accidents. In a bid to reduce such incidents, the Traffic and Patrols departments nationwide are keen to redouble their efforts and to increase the control and surveillance operations on the road. The departments will intensify traffic outreach programs and promote awareness about the dangers of traffic accidents in addition to the useful methods for avoiding and preventing accidents, he said.

Brigadier Al Zaabi stressed the importance of complying with traffic guidelines and instructions, of driving carefully, and of leaving a sufficient and safe distance between vehicles. He spoke of the need to avoid obstructing traffic by parking haphazardly; not to inappropriately park in spaces dedicated for those with disabilities; and to not impede the work of emergency personnel by parking in spaces allocated for emergency, ambulance, and Civil Defense vehicles.

The Director General of Traffic Coordination reiterated the necessity of fully complying with the laws, rules, and regulations of traffic. He urged for motorists to observe the legal speed limits on roads, to spare themselves and others from the risk of traffic accidents and the subsequent result of casualties and losses. He also warned against using mobile phones while driving, whether to talk or text; stressing that such actions distract the driver and increases reaction times, which leads to accidents.