Motorists urged to practise patience on roads and rest at night to reduce risk of accidents during Ramadan
Tailgating, driving while tired and jumping red lights are among the leading causes of road accidents reported during Ramadan, government data has shown.
Police regularly launch safety campaigns during the holy month to encourage the public to drive carefully, particularly when people are travelling home to break their fast.
Abu Dhabi Police have reminded motorists to abide by traffic rules.
In a video on social media, police emphasised the need to leave sufficient travel time, stick to speed limits and refrain from jumping red lights.
“Always remember that there are others waiting for you to arrive safely,” the video message said.
The latest statistics from the Ministry of Interior showed there were 223 road accidents during Ramadan in 2021.
There were 3,488 accidents that year.
The most common traffic offence during the holy month was distracted driving, with 39 accidents resulting in five deaths and 34 injuries.
Thomas Edelmann, managing
director of Road Safety UAE, urged motorists who were fasting to ensure they were well rested to help avoid accidents.
“Fatigue driving is particularly common during Ramadan as people adjust to the fasting schedule and tend to stay up for longer hours,” he said.
“This can lead to a lack of attention and slower reaction times. To counter this, ensure you get enough rest and avoid driving during peak fatigue hours, such as just before iftar.”
Entering roads without checking it was safe caused seven deaths and 24 injuries during the holy month in 2021, figures showed. “Check your mirrors, blind spots and ensure there is enough space for your vehicle to merge safely,” Mr Edelmann said.
“Practise patience and wait for the right opportunity to join traffic, rather than rushing and risking an accident.”
Motorists who failed to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles caused accidents that injured 16 during the period.
“Maintaining a safe distance allows for adequate reaction time in case of sudden stops or swerving,” Mr Edelmann said.
“When the vehicle ahead passes a fixed point, there should be at least a three-second gap before you reach that same point. Adjust this gap based on road conditions, visibility and speed.”
Data also emphasised the dangers of jumping red lights.
One death and 14 injuries were reported during the holy month two years ago after motorists attempted to beat traffic lights.
Other factors that caused accidents during the period were sudden swerving, speeding and random or double parking near mosques.
“By being mindful of these offences and taking the necessary precautions, motorists can contribute to a safer driving environment for everyone during the holy month,” Mr Edelmann said.
During Ramadan last year, Dubai Police called on all motorists to observe traffic rules and show patience while driving before iftar.
Brig Saif Al Mazroui of Dubai Police said on social media that many accidents were caused by “tension and fasting”, reckless driving and fatigue.
The force last year carried out a traffic campaign in which they distributed iftar meals to motorists to ensure they did not feel the need to rush home to break their fast.