Sharjah: Sharjah Police’s campaign, "A Summer Without Accidents”, kicked off on Monday. The campaign aims to crackdown on all types of accidents that take place during the summer holidays. It will also offer guidelines for motorists setting off on long journeys.
Police records show that 34 people died in 147 accidents in Sharjah during the third quarter of 2016 [summer period].
“It’s the period of summer holidays and many people go on long trips in their cars. [We urge them] to follow traffic instructions for their safety, said Major Omar Bu Ghanem, Head of traffic and patrols, Sharjah.
The campaign aims to reach zero deaths on the roads this summer or at least lead to fewer deaths and accidents.
Major Bu Ghanem urged motorists to conduct all checks for their vehicles including tyre safety before going on trips outside the country.
“Checking car tyres should be also mandatory and motorists should conduct safety checks periodically, especially in hot weather conditions, to avoid the threat of serious accidents,” he said.
He urged motorists to pay attention to the roads while driving and not be distracted by mobile phones or other devices.
He said travelling for long distance need to take precautions. “Any load placed on the car must not be higher than 60 centimetres because overloading may cause skidding and accidents. Motorists should also be more cautious when overtaking heavy trucks, make sure the road is clear, leave enough distance [between vehicles], and ensure their vehicles are properly lit. Motorists must not drive at a speed higher than 120km/ph,” he added.
Major Bu Ghanem urged motorists to avoid driving if feeling tired and advised them to use seat belts, as it will help avoid grave accidents and hefty fines.
“Babies and young children should also be safely strapped into their seats,” he said.
Brochures in both Arabic and English will be distributed on roads and in shopping malls and information will also be posted online.