Abu Dhabi: Police in Abu Dhabi is considering stopping an automatic 50 per cent discount on traffic fines as the emirate registered a 42 per cent jump in traffic-related fatalities in the first four months of 2016, an official said on Monday.
The official did not specify when the decision will come into effect, but a proposal has been sent to the Abu Dhabi Government.
After the implementation of the detailed transport fines and black points system in 2008, Abu Dhabi residents have been receiving a 50 per cent discount on traffic fines.
This is, however, about to change because the number of deaths due to road accidents has gone up from 54 to 77 in the first quarter of 2016 compared with the same period last year.
“All the methods of awareness and control we have carried out seem to have had a limited effect on drivers who are the reason behind road incidents,” said Brig Hussain Al Harithi, director-general of Central Operations at Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters.
The number of road accidents has gone up from 477 to 489 in the first quarter over the same period last year.
“Around 88 of these incidents took place in clear weather, indicating drivers’ accountability for these events,” he added.
Youth ages 18-33 have caused 44 per cent of road accidents, followed by those ages 31-45, responsible for 38 per cent. and a number of individuals under 18 years old who have committed 15 traffic accidents — all in the first quarter of this year.
“Individuals from Asian countries caused about 39 per cent of the accidents while Emiratis were behind 32 per cent and Arabs were involved in 20 per cent of accidents,” Brig Al Harithi said.
Major steps will also be taken in the near future to stop drivers who have committed violations totalling Dh10,000, the official said.
Payment of fines
“Coordination with the Department of Naturalisation and Residency and other government sectors is also under way to reinforce the payment of traffic fines before proceeding with the transfer or cancellation of visas and completion of other documents,” he added.
Meanwhile, as part of the Abu Dhabi Traffic and Patrols Directorate’s ongoing efforts in the emirate to reinforce discipline on the road, the first noise radar has been installed near Shaikh Khalifa Medical City, with more to follow in hospitals and schools.
Steps to reduce incidents
The noise radar is the first of its kind around the world and has been designed by officers of Abu Dhabi Police. It automatically issues violations to drivers of vehicles that make a loud noise.
Other steps to limit road incidents include increasing fines on the spot, which have been proven to be more effective than other methods.
Police have also increased the number of patrols, mobile and still radars alongside condensed public awareness campaigns that strategically change every season.
“During the summer, we encourage drivers to check their tyres and vehicle maintenance. In foggy and rainy weather, our campaigns include recommendations on cautious driving and proper use of hazard lights.
“During school seasons, slowing down and practising caution, especially near educational facilities, is mandatory and so on,” Brig Al Harithi said.
Biggest causes of road accidents during the first quarter of 2016
- Sudden swerving: 15 per cent
- Not leaving a safe distance: 13 per cent
- Speeding without considering road conditions: 12 per cent
- Not abiding by lane: 9 per cent
- Jumping the red light: 3 per cent
