Police across the UAE have been stepping up traffic patrols to send a clear and timely message that the highest standards of road safety will be maintained during Ramadan — in particular as people rush home for Iftar. In Dubai, police reports that most accidents occur during this period, and motorists have been urged to slow down, take their time and make every effort to ensure a safe drive.
Senior police officers say that speed is a major factor behind accidents during Ramadan, with drivers pushing the limits to get home for Iftar. While it’s understandable, the temptation to speed must be curtailed. But this Ramadan reminder and advise should also be taken to heart for the rest of the year as well. Too many people are killed or injured and too many accidents occur as a result of speeding.
Every time we get behind the wheel of a vehicle, we are in control of a machine that has the capacity to kill and maim. Even if you are a driver who abides by aall the rules of the road, drives safely and doesn’t cross the speed limit, you need to assume that other motorists are neither as careful nor as thoughtful as you are. At all times, every care and precaution needs to be taken to ensure safety.
This Ramadan initiative to increase police presence on roads is a welcome one, and it will certainly help to prevent accidents. Radars and cameras too are part of a comprehensive road safety plan, but nothing can replace visible police presence on our roads. If anything, increased patrols throughout the year should be actively pursued.
