Sharjah: Fewer traffic-related deaths were reported in Sharjah in the first half of the year compared to the same period last year, Sharjah Police said on Tuesday. There were 61 fatalities this year compared to 69 in the first half of 2016.
However, deaths in run-over accidents increased 9 per cent as there were 24 deaths in the first six months of the year compared to 22 in the same period last year.
The victims were pedestrians trying to cross roads at non-designated areas, and crossing the road while the traffic signal was still red.
These statistics were revealed during an meeting between Sharjah Police and members of the Asian community alongside members of the media.
The meeting also included a conversation about the amended federal traffic law that came into force on July 1 and the confusion over seat belts and child seats.
Pakistanis topped the list of fatalities in traffic accidents followed by Indians, Emiratis, Bangladeshis and other nationalities.
Among the accidents reported in the first half, 33 were serious, 154 moderate and 202 minor, compared to 42 serious, 131 moderate and 162 minor accidents in the same period last year.
Sharjah Traffic and Patrol Department on Tuesday launched a campaign on Asian media networks to spread the message of traffic safety among Asian expatriates.
Major Mohammad Alai Al Naqbi, head of Traffic and Patrol Department at Sharjah Police, said the aim of the campaign is to reduce the high death rate among Asians, mostly Pakistanis, Indians, Bangladeshis and Afghans.
“It is our responsibility to spread awareness among them and educate them about the safety rules,” Maj Al Naqbi said. Statistics show that human error is the primary cause of most accidents, he added.
The major reasons for fatal accidents were speeding, sudden swerving, lack of attention, entering a road without making sure it is clear, driving in the opposite direction, jumping the red signal, poor changing of lanes, failing to maintain safe distance, and reckless driving.
Speeding and reckless driving invites a fine of up to Dh3,000 and 23 black points in addition to the vehicle being impounded for 60 days.
Motorists must follow the speed limit, drive patiently and be courteous to avoid accidents and tough penalties, Maj Al Naqbi said.
He said jumping the red signal is also a major cause of accidents leading to fatalities and serious injuries.
Recent statistics show that many motorists jump the red signal because they do not slow down when they see the amber light.
Jumping the red signal invites a Dh1,000 fine and 12 black points, in addition to impoundment of the vehicle for 30 days.
Pedestrians fined for hindering emergency teams
Sharjah Police issued dozens of fines to bystanders for hindering the movement of emergency vehicles during a fire at Sharjah’s central souq recently.
Pedestrians who hinder the movement of police and civil defence teams invite a fine of Dh400.
During the fire, people crowded around the scene and created obstacles for emergency workers, police said.
Emergency personnel said they couldn’t even find a place to park.
