MUSCAT: Young people ageing between 18 and 35, top the statistical indicators in terms of involvement with dangerous driving behaviours including speeding, not maintaining a safe following distance, faulty lane changes, among others.
This was stated by Brigadier Eng Ali bin Sulayem al Falahi, Director-General of Traffic at Royal Oman Police (ROP). He said that some drivers commit traffic violations such as tailgating, not maintaining a safe following distance, changing lanes improperly and dangerous overtaking. Such traffic violations pose a direct threat to public safety on the road, resulting in fatal road accidents. The Directorate- General of Traffic has intensified traffic patrols and road monitoring to tackle traffic violators.
The Director-General of Traffic said that traffic statistics indicate that young motorists, particularly in the age group 18 to 35 years, account for the highest percentage of traffic violations and accidents. This age group is associated with certain dangerous behaviours, such as speeding, reckless driving, improper overtaking.
Al Falahi stressed that motorists’ abidance by traffic laws is essential for regulating traffic flow between vehicles and pedestrians. This contributes to reducing traffic accidents and preventing errors by road users. He pointed out that traffic safety is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation among all society segments. He explained that adherence to traffic regulations should be associated with ethical driving, including respecting the rights of others, giving way when necessary, exercising patience, and avoiding actions that might endanger other road users.
Brigadier Eng Ali bin Sulayem al Falahi, Director-General of Traffic at ROP, stated that the Directorate-General of Traffic, through its Traffic Safety Institutes Department, embraces an awareness-raising approach in all governorates. This approach focuses on instilling values of respect, responsibility, and discipline among road users. It also involves disseminating traffic awareness and promoting traffic safety concepts through various awareness programs targeting all segments of society, including different age groups, school students, employees in government and private sectors, and the general public. This contributes to achieving a safe traffic environment for everyone.
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