Traffic deaths down 19% in H1 in Abu Dhabi

abu dhabi — Lives claimed by traffic accidents have declined in Abu Dhabi by 19 per cent in the first half of 2017, compared to the same period last year, said the General Command of Abu Dhabi Police on Monday.

The Abu Dhabi Police have released figures, which reveal an eight per cent decline in serious traffic accidents and 19 per cent decrease in deaths, comparing the first halves of 2017 and 2016.

Figures also revealed a three per cent decrease in run-over accidents, as well as 29 per cent decrease in fines and violations.

The force also revealed that cars registered in Abu Dhabi have increased by 13 per cent, while residents obtaining a driver’s licence increased by six per cent.

Brigadier-General Ahmed Abdullah Al Shehhi, deputy director of the directorate of traffic and patrols at the Abu Dhabi Police, said the foremost reasons for traffic accidents this year were negligence and lack of attention, followed by sudden swerving and not leaving enough distance between vehicles. Speeding, entering the main road without ensuring it is clear, and running through the red light were also primary accident causes.

Exploding tyres also led to accidents on Abu Dhabi roads. “Many traffic accidents could have been avoided if drivers behaved correctly.” Brig-Gen Al Shehhi said drivers involved in the majority of accidents are between the ages of 18 to 30, causing a whopping 44 per cent of all traffic incidents.

Asian drivers were responsible for 38 per cent of traffic incidents followed by UAE nationals and drivers from the GCC. Brig-Gen Al Shehhi noted the violations of excessive speed resulted in 76 per cent of the total offences in Abu Dhabi so far in 2017.

The released figures by the Ministry of Interior indicated that although traffic incidents have decreased across the country by 12.5 per cent, fatalities are still hitting staggering figures, as 315 people have been killed in the first half of 2017 on the roads. Also, 3,015 people have been injured this year across the country. BrigGen Al Shehhi said improving traffic safety is a priority, which is why the Abu Dhabi Police have created widespread campaigns and initiatives to help educate the public about road rules. He urged motorists to abide by the new traffic laws, which took effect across the UAE on July 1.