13% drop in violations of mobile usage while driving

Abu Dhabi - Phone use is a main reason for motorists driving through red lights

There has been a 13 per cent decrease in violations of mobile usage while driving, Khaleej Times has learned.
According to statistics revealed by the Directorate of Traffic and Patrols at Abu Dhabi Police, traffic violations of mobile usage have dropped by 13 per cent from July to October this year, compared to the same period in 2016.
Dr Abdullah Al Suwaidi, deputy director of the external areas of the directorate, said the drop in violations has a lot to do with the awareness raised about road safety and road rules in the emirate. He said the improvement is a result of efforts in promoting traffic culture and intensify traffic control, adding that raising awareness about the dangers of mobile usage while driving and its severe impact on the focus of drivers has helped decrease the number of accidents.
Al Suwaidi said that phone usage while driving is widely linked to the reasons why motorists drive through red lights as well as one of the main reasons to traffic accidents that have led to severe injuries and even death.
He said authorities have zero tolerance to the dangerous habit and drivers caught using mobile phones will receive a Dh800 fine, as well as four black points.
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• Abu Dhabi