Police tell drivers to respect speed limit as 15 die on roads

Dubai: Fifteen deaths from road accidents have been recorded since the beginning of December, a senior police official said on Thursday.

Lieutenant Colonel Saif Muhair Al Mazroui, Acting Director of Dubai Police's Traffic Department, told Gulf News there had been an average of one death from road accidents every day this month.

He said although the number was low compared to previous months of the year, it was worrying because the month is not yet over.

According to latest statistics, 223 people were killed and 2,478 people were injured in road accidents from the beginning of this year until October 20.

Al Mazroui said most of the accidents this month took place as a result of speeding during difficult weather conditions such as heavy rain.

Guidelines

"I request all motorists to abide by traffic rules and speed limits at all times, but pay special attention during the current changing weather conditions such as rain and fog," he said.

"Avoid turning the atmosphere of nice weather conditions to a sad one because of fatal accidents," he added.

Al Mazroui said four-wheel drivers and drivers of towing vehicles specifically need to pay more attention and abide by speed limits, because it is more difficult for them to control their vehicles on wet roads if they speed.

"There are several safety guidelines for motorists, especially the young ones, that need to be followed while driving in rainy or foggy weather conditions. The guidelines include reducing speed, as visibility usually goes down and leaving enough distance between vehicles to avoid crashes due to sudden braking," he said.

He said motorists need to avoid turning on their hazard lights if there is no emergency. He also asked people to turn on their headlights, and avoid changing lanes if unnecessary.

"Make sure the car is in good condition by checking its brakes, tyre pressure and wipers," he said.

Jaywalkers beware

Dubai Police's Traffic Department caught 428 jaywalkers during a campaign in Deira. They were crossing the road from undesignated places. A senior police officer said in many cases the jaywalker is responsible for accidents. The following roads recorded high numbers of jaywalkers:

Emirates Road 61

Abu Hail Road 53

Ras Al Khor Road 52

Al Aweer Road 46

2,305 jaywalkers have been caught since June 22, 2008.

Why are people so irresponsible when it comes to driving? Why do they not pay heed to safety rules? What do you think will force them to pay attention?