Dangers of slow dr ving

Muscat, Dec 25

Some drivers overlook crucial procedures and regulations that ensure safe and composed driving for themselves and others. The neglect of the potential dangers associated with certain daily driving habits is a common occurrence. One underestimated aspect is the peril of deviating from a clear, straight path on the road and driving excessively slow, significantly below the prescribed speed limit. Both of these practices can result in numerous traffic accidents, posing a genuine threat to the lives of drivers, passengers, and other road users.

Yousef al Abri, who has experienced first-hand the consequences of driving too slowly in the fast lane, highlighted the misconception among some drivers that slow driving is safe driving. He pointed out this perception’s fallacy, especially on major and fast roads. Driving at an excessively low speed in the middle or left lane can lead to accidents as faster-moving vehicles attempt to overtake the slow-paced car.Al Abri emphasised, “If you prefer driving at a speed below the road speed limit, it is advisable to stay in the right lane.” Al Abri underscored that most overtaking manoeuvres on highways are prompted by the presence of a vehicle moving at a slow speed, causing congestion and serious traffic accidents, particularly during high traffic density. He called for stricter traffic control measures against those impeding traffic flow by driving below the limit without a valid reason.

Amjad al Balushi echoed these sentiments, asserting that driving at an excessively slow speed is as hazardous as driving at an excessive speed beyond the prescribed limits. Both behaviours pose a risk to road users, and he emphasised the imperative need to tighten control over such behaviours and enhance traffic awareness to curtail accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Mohammed al Risi supported penalty for drivers who persistently drive at slow speeds in the far-left fast lane, designated for vehicles travelling at the specified speed. While personally favouring moderate speeds, he highlighted the negative impact of slow-moving drivers causing traffic congestion and potential accidents. Al Risi stressed the benefits of cautious driving, enabling drivers to handle road surprises smoothly, in contrast to speeding drivers who may cause accidents with a single mistake.

Al Risi emphasised the necessity of clearly defining the concept of slowness in driving, acknowledging that it can vary from person to person. In Oman, where speed limits are predominantly set at 80 kilometres per hour, driving at less than 55 kilometres per hour could be considered slow. Therefore, a precise definition of slowness is imperative, and drivers who persistently drive slowly in the left or middle lane should face penalties.

In a separate interview with Khalil al Balushi, clarification was provided regarding the issue of sudden speed reduction by some reckless drivers. Al Balushi confirmed that this behaviour jeopardises road safety and leads to accidents. He remarked, “Some drivers abruptly reduce speed to observe an accident that occurred in the other lane, leading to additional accidents in their lane.” Al Balushi emphasised the urgency of increasing awareness in such situations, advocating for careful driving to avoid side accidents resulting from drivers’ focus on incidents in the other lane. He called for positive interaction with traffic laws and strict adherence to specified speeds, affirming that avoiding dangerous behaviours contributes significantly to maintaining everyone’s safety on the roads.