Tougher rules boost compliance of traffic laws, say experts
MUSCAT: Six months after harsher rules were brought in to punish drivers using their phones, safety campaigners and road users say things are improving. Experts and community members weighed in on the effect of harsher traffic laws, six months after they have been implemented.
Enforcement of the new laws began on September 6, and introduced harsher penalties for reckless driving, including speeding, drunk driving, and using a mobile phone while driving.
Ali Al Barwani, head of the Oman Road Safety Association (ORSA), said the new laws were good for the country.
“The laws were introduced after years of awareness campaigns from the Royal Oman Police (ROP) and ORSA about safe driving, from multiple channels. Penalties are important because they guarantee safer roads to all of society, and they only affect those who want to endanger our families and children through reckless driving,” Al Barwani said.
The new traffic laws intro- duced hefty fees, along with jail time for offenders.
Mobile phone use while driving can be fined for up to OMR300, and violators can be sentenced to 10 days in prison.
The Times of Oman asked the general public about whether the use of mobile phones while driving has declined since introducing the seemingly harsh traffic law, and received varying reactions.
Some respondents believe that instances of mobile use while driving have fallen, and offered thanks to the Royal Oman Police.
Mukesh Dey said, “Yes it has been reduced, and I personally am glad to witness this change – I want to thank ROP for working for our safety.”
He added,“(Although) I do see, at times, people using their phones, but it has considerably been reduced, which means the law is a big success.”
Al Barwani noted, “They have served the community as a whole, because while there are always going to be safe, disciplined drivers, there are others who do not commit to these safety laws, even with the dangerous consequences.”