ABU DHABI // Police have reiterated their warnings to motorists not to drive through a red traffic light.
A series of traffic safety awareness campaigns was launched by Abu Dhabi Police’s Traffic and Patrols Directorate targeting drivers at government departments, private companies and bus and taxi drivers.
Lt Col Jamal Al Ameri, head of public relations at the directorate, called on motorists to adhere to traffic rules.
Accidents from running red lights often have serious consequences and put motorists in danger, he said.
He also urged motorists to slow down as they approach traffic lights and junctions and to also avoid increasing speed when traffic lights turn from green to yellow.
Offenders will receive eight black points on their driving record, a Dh800 fine and their vehicle will be confiscated for 15 days.
The traffic safety improvement strategy of the directorate is based on what it calls the “six Es”. They are: enforcement; education; engineering; emergency response; evaluation; and engagement, plus integration.
Lt Col Al Ameri said the sixth pillar of the strategy – engagement – highlights the importance of social responsibility in traffic safety.
Ten community-based monthly initiatives to raise awareness and help to save lives were announced on March 9, the start of Gulf Traffic Week.
It is set to begin with “The road belongs to everyone” campaign that aims to spread the message that traffic safety is the responsibility of all road users.
It will be followed by “The ideal drivers”, that will highlight drivers with clean driving records to inspire others, and “They have the right” to encourage road users to pay special attention to motorcyclists and cyclists.
“There is a kid in your car” will promote responsible driving. “You are the pillars of the future” is intended to instil a sense of patriotism among young people. “They have priorities” will encourage drivers to give priority to pedestrians, while “Respect my road knowledge” will aim to encourage labourers unfamiliar with rules to adopt them for their own safety.
Other initiatives include “On the classroom seat”, which will spread school safety awareness. “You build, not destroy” is intended to remind lorry drivers in the construction sector of their safety role on the roads, and “The bus on the road”, will warn parents and other drivers to be cautious when picking up or dropping off pupils.
The Traffic Creative Council will invite committees from different sectors of society to discuss traffic issues, and the Traffic Safety Ambassador initiative aims to reinforce the sense of social responsibility to achieve an ideal traffic system.
These initiatives form part of UAE Together – a campaign by Abu Dhabi Police to increase awareness about traffic rules and regulations, to reduce accidents.
newsdesk@thenational.ae
