Ramadan in UAE: Why motorists are urged to be extra careful during this time of day

This Ramadan, motorists are once again reminded to be more attentive and extra careful on the road as traffic accidents usually increase this holy month, particularly during the pre-Iftar hours.

“Ramadan is a very special time and it is all about being with the ones close to you. But it also brings unique challenges for all traffic participants, and we have been seeing more accidents happening during this month as compared to other months,” Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, told Khaleej Times on Saturday.

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“The Ramadan period poses a specific challenge to UAE road users and we want to contribute from our side to keep everyone safe on the road,” he added.

RoadSafetyUAE analysed with leading auto insurance companies Ramadan specific claims and they found a pattern in road behaviour and accidents over the past few years. “The insights are aimed at raising awareness and protecting UAE road users, especially during Ramadan,” noted Edelmann.

According to the study, most accidents are taking place between 1pm to 4pm (35 per cent), during the pre-Iftar time of the day. This is followed by the late morning rush hour from 9 to 12pm (21 per cent).

Wednesdays are the most dangerous day of the week, while weekends are the safest. Motorists in the age bracket of 30-39 years are most vulnerable, followed by the segment of 40–49 year old.

Psychological and physical challenges

Edelmann explained: “Road accidents during pre-Iftar rush can be explained as a mix of psychological urges and physical needs, and some motorists use this condition as an excuse to misbehave on the roads.”

“The Ramadan specific lifestyle has physical effects on our body. Fasting can result in dehydration and low blood sugar, which in turn can affect our attentiveness, concentration, vision and reaction,” noted Edelmann.

“In addition to fasting, the often unusual meal and social engagement timings, as well as unusual sleeping patterns can cause fatigue, exhaustion, impatience and distraction, which might explain the early morning accident peaks,” he continued.

Edelmann underscored: “There is really an urgent need for all traffic participants – motorists, pedestrians, motorcycle riders, cyclists, etc. – to be extra careful. He also shared the following road safety tips:

• Plan your schedules properly and leave early to avoid the need for rushing or speeding

• Expect the unexpected – drive defensively always.

• Always wear your seat belt.

• Try to stay off the roads just before Iftar.

• Keep a sufficient distance between their vehicle and do not tailgate.

• Approach signals carefully at Iftar time, even when the light is green; do not jump red lights.

• Around sunset, prior to iftar, be very cautious or stay off the roads at sundown if you can avoid it

• Be aware of your own potential limitations

• Avoid fatigue and get enough sleep, and pull over immediately if you becoming drowsy.

• Use public transport or taxis.

• Don’t drive distracted!

• Be respectful to others and don’t maneuver abruptly — use your indicator!

• Be considerate and generous to other people who are fasting

• Be extra careful during peak accident morning rush hours

Angel Tesorero

angel@khaleejtimes.com

Angel Tesorero is Assistant Editor and designated funny guy in the newsroom, but dead serious about writing on transport, labour migration, and environmental issues. He is a food lover too.