UAE | Traffic and Transport

Records show drastic drop in alcohol-related accidents

Alcohol-related cases have come down dramatically during the holiday season this year, usually the peak season for alcohol-related accidents, the Trauma Centre said.

  • By Nina Muslim, Staff Reporter
  • Published: 23:31 December 28, 2008
  • Gulf News

Dubai: Alcohol-related cases have come down dramatically during the holiday season this year, usually the peak season for alcohol-related accidents, the Trauma Centre said.

Dr. G.Y. Naroo, medical specialist in-charge at the Trauma Centre, told Gulf News alcohol cases had decreased this year, breaking a trend stretching to when the centre opened in 2006.

"The numbers have really come down and they usually peak around this time of the year," he said.

"I don't really know why; maybe it's because of the recession or that more people are overseas. Let's hope it continues till the New Year," he added.

No statistics are available yet, but Christmas Day 2008, which is another peak day for alcohol cases, only recorded two serious cases involving alcohol which included one man who fell off his bed and landed on his head because he was too drunk.

In previous years, cases involving alcohol could easily exceed 20 per cent of all accidents during the period spanning from Christmas to New Year's day.

Dr. Naroo said the decreasing number was no reason to let loose on New Year's however, adding the public should practice caution while driving and celebrating the new year, 2009.

"We don't have a big problem of alcohol compared to European countries, but cases in which alcohol plays a part, whether it's a fight or drink driving, still happen," he said.

He warned alcohol, if consumed in excess, impaired judgement and the ability to operate vehicles.

He advised people wishing to enjoy a few drinks at New Year parties to drink slowly and consume alcohol moderately, making sure to eat beforehand.

"If you take a bit, you get a feeling of well-being. But if they take too much... they put themselves and others at risk," he added.

He also said steps were being taken to prevent alcohol-related accidents and trauma cases.

"Every year, we send doctors out with ambulances on the holidays so they can provide immediate help by the roadside, and help take the burden off hospitals," he said.

He did not know if the centre planned to do the same this year, but urged alcohol awareness campaigns to continue over the holiday season.

Staying alive: Dos and dont's

  • Do eat before drinking
  • Do take small sips over a long period
  • Do drink plenty of water in between drinks
  • Do not take alcohol with medicines
  • Do not drive or operate any vehicles after drinking
  • Do have a designated driver

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