Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority has urged motorists to exercise care and caution while driving during Ramadan, as fatigue and drowsiness tend to impair a driver's concentration and increase the risk of road crashes.
RTA Traffic and Roads Agency's Director of Traffic, Hussain Al Banna, said the awareness campaign was to educate motorists about safe driving practices during Ramadan to reduce the number of fatalities due to road accidents.
He said 16 people had died in 239 traffic accidents during Ramadan last year. Al Banna said brochures in Arabic and English providing essential tips on how to avoid traffic crashes were being handed out as part of the campaign, which was launched earlier this month. Lectures at public and private venues such as the Ministry of Social Affairs and Dubai Ports have also helped spread the message. The RTA's ‘virtual messaging' signs have also been instrumental in reminding motorists about dos and don'ts, he said.
Al Banna added that RTA parking inspectors had been handing out leaflets at Emarat refuelling stations. Emarat is one of RTA's key partners in the campaign, he said.
The brochure urges motorists to rest before driving, and to take a break if they feel exhausted, drowsy or are yawning frequently. Taking a break, though brief, might help the driver complete his journey safely.
The brochure also calls on drivers who hear the call to end their fast while driving to stop at the nearest petrol station or grocery to take a light iftar before resuming their journey.
Motorists are also urged to keep a safe distance from other vehicles, among other things.
