New traffic regulations a step in right direction

As UAE eyes zero road fatalities per 100,000 people by 2020, we all must contribute towards reaching that goal

The new traffic regulations by the Ministry of Interior to be implemented across the UAE soon are a strong message to motorists to up their game of safer, more responsible and disciplined driving. Among the new regulations, of particular mention is the mandatory wearing of seat belts for all passengers in a car, a stricture that is eminently desirable given the litany of instances wherein children, in particular, treat the rear seats of the car as a playground under the benign gaze of their indulgent parents. Now at least, it is hoped that these young passengers will be properly belted in, as will adult passengers, unless the driver wishes to cough up a Dh400 fine and earn four black points.

It is a fact that persistent efforts by UAE authorities have brought down negative traffic statistics. For example, the UAE currently has 6.52 road fatalities per 100,000 people, down from 22 per 100,000 recorded more than 10 years back — a commendable achievement indeed. But there’s some way to go — towards the zero road fatalities per 100,000 people milestone by 2020. And this is where the role and responsibility of motorists come in — only if they cooperate can there be complete success for an envisioned goal. Instead of compelling the authorities to keep reviewing traffic regulations and escalating penalties in response to continued bad driving practices, motorists, as responsible residents, can be the front-runners in this journey of progress. For those who chafe at traffic rules and regulations, let this be said again: They exist for the one and only purpose of keeping everyone safe on the roads. Can there be anything more important than that?

Think about it the next time you get behind the wheel.