379 drivers jump red light in 3 months in RAK

Ras Al Khaimah - But there is also significant drop of 62 per cent in the violation, compared to 2016

Despite the increased penalties introduced by the amended Federal Traffic Law this year, some drivers insist on ignoring the regulations meant to keep road users safe.
Up to 379 drivers have intentionally jumped red traffic lights in Ras Al Khaimah in just three months.
As per the amended traffic law, implemented in July 2017, jumping the red light will lead to vehicle confiscation for 30 days, along with a fine of Dh1,000 and 12 black points on the licence. The earlier penalty for the same offence was a 15-day impoundment period, Dh800 fine, and 8 black points.
Col Ali Saeed Al Alkeem, director of the traffic and patrols department of RAK police, said some drivers turn a blind eye to traffic laws, disregarding the possible grave consequences.
"Though 379 drivers broke the red light here in the last three months - July to September - official figures also reflect a significant drop of 62 per cent in this serious violation in 2017's third quarter, compared to 1,018 in the same period last year.
"The reported drop is due to the RAK Police's tireless efforts to spread awareness in the entire community, intensified inspection campaigns and numerous radars covering the entire emirate."
The repeated awareness campaigns by the traffic and patrols department target all segments of society - men and women, old and young, locals and expats. "We use all possible channels of communication, including social media, official websites and accounts, and mass media."
The remarkable drop has increased the positive indicators of the traffic situation in the emirate, he added. Sticking to the speed limit on all internal roads and highways is mandatory, he underlined. "Road signs show the due speed limit in every direction."
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• Ras Al Khaimah