(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Seventy-one people were killed in traffic accidents on the roads of Ras Al Khaimah last year, a significant rise over the 42 traffic-related deaths reported in 2013. Speeding was the main reason behind most of the traffic accidents reported in the emirate.
Col Ahmed Saeed Al Naqbi, head of traffic engineering section at the traffic and patrol department, RAK Police, said 85 per cent of the traffic accidents and fatalities recorded in 2014 occurred due to the "human element".
"Exceeding speed limits, not paying attention while on the roads, jumping traffic signals, driving under the influence of narcotics and alcohol, poor overtaking, ignoring safety space, tyre explosion and reckless and careless driving are classified under the human element," Col Al Naqbi said.
In a recent study, the RAK Traffic and Patrols Department identified three major factors behind traffic accidents, Col Al Naqbi said in an awareness lecture themed 'Speeding, safety enemy' held at the Emirates Association for Social Development.
"On top of these was the human element due to work pressure, fatigue, stress, exhaustion, overthinking, illness, inattentiveness, recklessness, indifference and blurred vision."
The second factor was the technical malfunctions in vehicles like inoperative and broken lights; brake failure; worn-out tyres; and engine snags.
The third factor has to do with lack of road infrastructure like "lack of road signs, slippery roads due to rains and engineering faults in some roads".
The study showed that most of the casualties were children, women, patients and the elderly.
"The many awareness campaigns launched have helped decrease the number of traffic accidents across the emirate. People and road users are becoming more aware on how to drive safely and respect other road users."
Traffic-related deaths registered last year includes 22 Emiratis, as opposed to 10 in 2013, he noted.
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