A sudden surge in accident cases as Ramadhan nears end

Despite repeated warnings and preventive measures, accidents continue to happen on a regular basis, some of them being serious and fatal.

Some of the cases reported and shared by the eyewitnesses on social media, however, have not been confirmed by the authorities.

"Around 13-14 cases have been reported in the last 10 days and most of these accidents from outside the big cities Ibri, Nizwa and Wadi al Alaq, which points out that rules are not strictly followed in the absence of strict vigilance or patrol on the roads," said a social post.

Royal Oman Police (ROP) has been urging motorists to follow road safety guidelines during Ramadhan as there has been surge in road accidents over the past week or so.

Fatigue driving is particularly common during Ramadhan as people adjust to the fasting schedule and tend to stay up for long hours, which may lead to a lack of attention and slower reaction times.

"Ensure to get enough rest and avoid driving during peak fatigue hours, especially before iftar," ROP said.

One citizen critically said, "Some people do not mind donating some riyals to the treasury by violations but in the process, he puts himself, his family, and that of others in danger." According to National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), most of the accidents reported in the Sultanate of Oman are due to speed, fatigue, negligence, overtaking, weather, and sudden stopping, among others.

In its advisories, ROP said that getting too close to the vehicle in front of you (tailgating) increases the risk of crashing into it. It is also considered a violation if the driver did not leave the safety distance.

For those driving after sunset, it is important to have a thorough cleaning of the windshield, check on headlights and taillights, and avoid looking directly at the lights of oncoming vehicles. Keep a safe distance and slow down the vehicle.

“The motorist must focus only on driving at all times and avoid using everything that would distract attention such as using the phone." To avoid traffic congestion, the Royal Oman Police has restricted trucks from the main roads during busy hours.

To avoid any possible traffic congestion Royal Oman Police -D.G of Traffic announced that the movement of trucks is forbidden during the holy month of Ramadhan. The trucks are banned Sunday to Thursday from 6 am- 9 am & 12 pm and 4 pm. Saturday: from 6 pm - 10 pm on the main roads in Muscat Governorate, Al Dhakhiliyah Road (Muscat - Bidbid Bridge), Al Batinah Highway (Muscat - Shinas).

To avoid traffic congestion and accidents, this year the Ministry of Labour also announced flexible hours and remote working options, as people rush for work in the morning or return home in the afternoon.