There is no need to rush during Eid

There is a need for commuters to take extra care on the roads as tired drivers increase the risk of crashes during Eid. In the next four days of Eid al Fitr holidays, the roads are likely to witness rush as people move around the country to enjoy Eid holidays.

In Oman, like many other countries, authorities have made efforts to make roads safer by imposing strict penalties on offenders and enhancing driver training and road management, but there is still some way to go before we see road discipline. We as the public need to be more serious on that.

“Even though there are not many cars on the road, Eid is usually a challenging time to remain safe on the road, more so when it falls along the weekend. I believe rush drivers need to be given lessons on road etiquette. I have seen that people lack basic courtesy towards others on the road. There is no need to rush,” Amer al Touqi, a concerned citizen said.

According to road safety experts, there are some accidents reported during this period. They call for speed management and advise people to drive slow and not be in a rush while enjoying Eid.

“During my many years of driving, I have noticed that people tend to be tired and still want to drive fast during Eid. There is need to plan our journey so that we reach home safely. Even if it is already late, we need to slow down,” said road safety expert.

But the good news is that there has been a drop in accidents in the recent years in Oman. New laws have been introduced and the penalties are significant in ensuring safer roads for all in society.

The safety of children during car journeys is of utmost importance and placing children in the front seat of a vehicle is strongly discouraged due to safety considerations. “It is highly recommended to use the rear seat and provide a dedicated child seat for optimal safety,” ROP official said.

Studies have demonstrated that using the rear seat along with a dedicated child seat can reduce the risk of injuries by approximately 45 per cent compared to placing a child in the front seat without proper restraints.

This significant risk reduction highlights the importance of following these guidelines and prioritising children's safety during car trips. By following these practices, pedestrians can minimise the risk of accidents and contribute to a safer road environment.