Military service leading to better drivers on the road

Emiratis have been joining the country’s military in the hope that it will benefit their homeland and save lives. And this week, the UAE saw that hope being realised in unexpected ways. On Wednesday, the Abu Dhabi Traffic Prosecution said that the UAE’s mandatory military service has led to a 42 per cent decline in traffic accidents in the first quarter of the year.

That military service would instil discipline is a given. In fact, it is a necessary part of the process. This discipline results in citizens who exercise more control, avoid unnecessarily dangerous behaviour and recognise the value of life.

That these traits have manifested themselves behind the wheel is hopefully just the first of many positive returns the country will receive from its newest batch of recruits.

Most importantly, this will not be a temporary effect with limited impact. Disciplined individuals will act as role models and encourage other citizens, including their friends and family, to emulate their behaviour.

This will eventually lead to a country where pointless deaths from careless drivers will largely be a thing of the past.