Ensuring traffic safety in Oman
Latest stats show a 9% rise in accidents, with 2,000 cases in 2023 and a rate of 12.2 per 10,000 vehicles, up from 11.7 last year
Published: 05:02 PM,Feb 17,2025 | EDITED : 11:02 AM,Feb 18,2025
ENSURING TRAFFIC SAFETY IN OMAN
Data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information indicates that the number of registered vehicles in Oman reached approximately 1,753,872 by the end of December 2024. With this growing number of vehicles on the roads, strict adherence to traffic safety measures is essential to protect lives.
A recent run-over incident in one of the governorates tragically claimed multiple lives, underscoring the devastating impact of road accidents. Beyond the immediate loss of life, such incidents create psychological distress for citizens and impose significant financial burdens on society due to the loss of human capital.
Despite ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including the development of modern highways, pedestrian bridges and advanced traffic infrastructure, the number of road accidents remains a pressing concern. The latest statistics reveal a 9-per cent increase in accidents compared to previous years, with 2,000 reported cases in 2023 and a rate of 12.2 per 10,000 vehicles, up from 11.7 the previous year.
While some accidents stem from technical, engineering, or mechanical failures, human error remains the primary cause.
Drivers bear the responsibility for their safety, as well as that of passengers and fellow road users.
Speeding continues to be the leading factor in road fatalities and injuries, alongside reckless driving, improper overtaking and failure to maintain safe distances.
Promoting traffic safety not only reduces accidents and injuries, but also enhances public confidence in road travel, minimises economic losses and contributes to social stability. A well-planned traffic system improves the quality of life by fostering a safer, more sustainable environment for all.
KEY TRAFFIC SAFETY MEASURES
To improve road safety, both pedestrians and drivers must adopt responsible behaviours:
#Strict adherence to traffic laws: Both drivers and pedestrians must comply fully with traffic regulations to ensure collective safety.
#Traffic education for children: Teaching children about road safety helps protect them from accidents and instils lifelong responsible behaviour.
#Obedience to traffic signals: Following traffic lights and road signs is crucial to maintaining order and preventing collisions.
#Undivided attention while driving: Drivers must avoid distractions, such as mobile phones, to maintain full concentration on the road.
Traffic safety is a collective responsibility, requiring commitment from individuals, society and institutions. By respecting road rules and adopting safe driving habits, Oman can move closer to its vision of an accident-free future.
A recent run-over incident in one of the governorates tragically claimed multiple lives, underscoring the devastating impact of road accidents. Beyond the immediate loss of life, such incidents create psychological distress for citizens and impose significant financial burdens on society due to the loss of human capital.
Despite ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including the development of modern highways, pedestrian bridges and advanced traffic infrastructure, the number of road accidents remains a pressing concern. The latest statistics reveal a 9-per cent increase in accidents compared to previous years, with 2,000 reported cases in 2023 and a rate of 12.2 per 10,000 vehicles, up from 11.7 the previous year.
While some accidents stem from technical, engineering, or mechanical failures, human error remains the primary cause.
Drivers bear the responsibility for their safety, as well as that of passengers and fellow road users.
Speeding continues to be the leading factor in road fatalities and injuries, alongside reckless driving, improper overtaking and failure to maintain safe distances.
Promoting traffic safety not only reduces accidents and injuries, but also enhances public confidence in road travel, minimises economic losses and contributes to social stability. A well-planned traffic system improves the quality of life by fostering a safer, more sustainable environment for all.
KEY TRAFFIC SAFETY MEASURES
To improve road safety, both pedestrians and drivers must adopt responsible behaviours:
#Strict adherence to traffic laws: Both drivers and pedestrians must comply fully with traffic regulations to ensure collective safety.
#Traffic education for children: Teaching children about road safety helps protect them from accidents and instils lifelong responsible behaviour.
#Obedience to traffic signals: Following traffic lights and road signs is crucial to maintaining order and preventing collisions.
#Undivided attention while driving: Drivers must avoid distractions, such as mobile phones, to maintain full concentration on the road.
Traffic safety is a collective responsibility, requiring commitment from individuals, society and institutions. By respecting road rules and adopting safe driving habits, Oman can move closer to its vision of an accident-free future.