Do not honk, use horns for a reason

Muscat: Some motorists resort to honking at traffic lights without any reason, which increases noise pollution and violates traffic laws. It may sometimes spark road rage or quarrels causing nuisance or traffic jams. According to traffic rules, if you use horns loudly it attracts a fine of RO10 the first time and RO 15 the second time. If horns are sounded in no-horn zones like hospitals or schools, the fine will be RO 10.

The horn is pressed to warn others of the vehicle's presence or approach or to call attention to some hazard. It is not an instrument to convey your impatience.

Some motorists have no patience and as soon as the light changes to yellow from red, the sounds of horns assail you.

Everybody wants to reach everywhere first. But this rush may sometimes cause accidents.

Using car horns has become a normal attitude for most people in their daily lives, especially when they want to buy something from eateries. Moreover, using the car horn has become more like a morning and evening greeting for some people.

In Oman, people honk during weddings or celebrations as an expression of joy or happiness. But one's merrymaking must not irritate others.

Road users pointed out on social media that many of those who excessively use horns do not respect the traffic rules. One of them explained that the unreasonable use of the horn is an irritating and uncivilised behaviour that has begun to spread on a large scale.

Others said the importance of spreading awareness to use horns responsibly. The authorities cannot enforce discipline without the support of road users.

Motorists blame honking on driving slowly on the highway, use of mobile phones at the wheel, hogging the left lane of the road without allowing anyone to pass them, and not moving the vehicle at the traffic lights even after the signal turns green.

Unnecessary honking and using shrill horns are a menace. No law or rule will help to control this noise pollution unless the a change in mindset. One must be careful to lower the decibel levels and discreetly use horns. Drive defensively, carefully, and with discipline to ensure road safety.