ABU DHABI, (Pakistan Point News - 25th Dec, 2018) A UAE newspaper has said that self-discipline holds the key when it comes to safe driving. A motorist who meticulously follows traffic rules while driving not only saves his or her own life, but also of others. Life is too precious to die on the roads owing to human negligence.
Latest statistics from the World Health Organisation indicates that over 1.35 million people die on the roads each year, while road traffic injuries are now the leading cause of death among young people.
That’s distressing news and raises an important question: Is safe driving possible at all? "Of course, it is possible," said The Gulf Today in an editorial on Tuesday.
"Hats off to a 78-year-old motorist, Saeed Rashid Ahmad Belhoun, who has proved this," the paper added.
By strictly observing traffic rules and regulations ever since he obtained his first driver’s licence in 1969, the Emirati national has now become a role model for other motorists. The Ras Al Khaimah Police have taken the right step by honouring him.
Not receiving a traffic fine ever since obtaining a driver’s licence way back in 1969 is an admirable feat and that’s what Ahmad Belhoun has achieved.
"The UAE has well-lit and well-fenced roads. There is no reason for motorists to break the rules and land in deep trouble," added the editorial comment.
The authorities also do a great job of alerting drivers about hazards of driving in foggy or other adverse conditions. Various campaigns are repeatedly launched to raise awareness on road safety.
Child safety too has been in focus. For example, the Child Safety Campaign, a subsidiary of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, earlier delivered 366 free car seats in a span of just two weeks to protect children during car rides.
The paper continued, "In cooperation with the UAE Federal Traffic Council, the seats were distributed to drivers across Sharjah, families in need, new mothers, children with disabilities and taxis.
"Such important initiatives are launched in line with the directives of H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SCFA and wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, who attaches the highest importance to family and child safety.
"Negligence on the part of motorists like using mobile phones while driving, ignoring signals or being lost in thoughts while on the wheel is what causes accidents on the roads.
"The simple and best way to avoid accidents is to follow the rules. Whether one is a pedestrian, motorcyclist or a motorist, adhering to the traffic regulations will go a long way in avoiding mishaps," concluded the Sharjah-based daily.
