RAK road violations up by 274% in 6 months

Ras Al Khaimah - Traffic police also fined 4,738 drivers in just one week for flouting traffic rules, like jumping red signals or speeding

A staggering spike in the number of traffic violations - of over 274 per cent - has been registered in Ras Al Khaimah in the first half of 2016, compared to the same period last year.
The new advanced speeding cameras and radars installed on many of the emirate's key intersections are credited with spotting the increased traffic offences, said Brigadier Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Humaidi, Director General of RAK police's Central Operations Room.
"These sophisticated, high definition infrared-operated cameras and radars have considerably reduced the number of road accidents - by 15 per cent - in the January to June 2016 period," Brig Al Humaidi noted.
RAK in particular has witnessed several gruesome accidents, with a number of fatalities. "Speeding and jumping red signals are the top causes leading to road deaths and serious injuries," the DG pointed out. Traffic records showed that RAK Police fined 4,738 drivers in just one week for flouting traffic rules and regulations. Erring drivers were caught jumping red signals, or speeding to cross the red light at intersections.
"Some motorists were also booked for not maintaining a safe distance between vehicles, and failing to do the shoulder check," the official said. The recorded violations document the types, reasons for, and impact of traffic mishaps, especially the grave ones.
RAK police take a no-tolerance policy to all traffic violations, particularly "those posing a risk to road users' safety, such as speeding, racing, reckless driving, and failing to give priority to pedestrians," the DG said.
Keeping a check on motorists
RAK traffic police installed 24 advanced radars on the emirate's intersections in October 2015, in addition to the existing cameras. "We have also accelerated the awareness programmes and distributed thousands of brochures to enlighten drivers about the serious impact of breaking a red signal."
The department had earlier replaced all regular traffic signals with advanced digital ones to curb snarls, accidents, and ensure smooth traffic flow.
"The new signals are all LED with high resolution colours, and can be easily seen by motorists and pedestrians from long distance, day or night."
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• Ras Al Khaimah