This Emirati never broke a traffic law in nearly 50 years

Ras Al Khaimah - A role model for all drivers on today's roads.

An Emirati man managed to stay on the right side of the road and did not break a single traffic law for almost 50 years.
The 78-year-old senior citizen, Saeed Rashid Ahmed Balhun, strictly observed traffic rules and regulations ever since he obtained his first driver's licence in 1969.
The Ras Al Khaimah police, as part of its tireless effort to encourage well-behaving drivers, boost traffic performance, and curb road accidents showed their appreciation for this model driver.
Brigadier Mohammed Saeed Al Humaid, director general of the central operations room, RAK police, said honouring such persons helps promote the spirit of competition in society "so that all motorists follow the same shiny track".
Balhun obtained his first driver's license in Kuwait.
"It is so important for all drivers to strictly follow traffic rules, as road safety should be their top priority," he added.
Traffic departments nationwide and the ministry of infrastructure development, spare no effort in improving road networks all over the country.
The UAE's roads have topped worldwide rankings for three years in a row.
Traffic laws have also changed over years towards efficiently deterring reckless drivers.
Major Rashid Saeed, Balhun's son, told Khaleej Times that his father used to work in the telecommunications sector in Kuwait.
"We are so proud of our father, and wish him all the best."
He added that his father, based in Shamal area to the north of Ras Al Khaimah, is still driving despite his age.
"He is so kind, disciplined, and punctual," he said. "We learned much from him. He should be registered in the Guinness book  of World Records."   
Young drivers need to follow his example, as so many deadly accidents involve youths.
Less than a month ago, a 24-year-old Emirati biker succumbed to his fatal injuries after his speeding motorbike rammed into a big pick-up vehicle on Rams road opposite the Interlock factory in Ras Al Khaimah.
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Ras Al Khaimah