Motorbike accidents kill 42, injure 89 in 5 years

Abu Dhabi - Motorcyclists also caused crashes by entering a road without ensuring it is clear.

Motorcycles caused a total of 682 road accidents in the last five years, which resulted in the death of 42 people, the Abu Dhabi Police revealed on Tuesday.
The Abu Dhabi Police said that out of the motorcycle accidents between the years 2013-17, 89 people were also seriously injured.
The Directorate of the Traffic and Patrols held a meeting with amateur motorcyclists on Monday, where they urged young drivers to follow road safety rules.
Police also discussed the main causes of road accidents caused by motorcyclists and the necessity of protective gear, including helmets that must be worn by drivers to avoid serious injuries or death.
The Abu Dhabi Police told Khaleej Times that motorcyclists must be extra cautious on roads, to abide by the traffic rules and to wear the necessary protective gear at all times. "We urge motorcycle drivers to wear their protective uniforms and helmets, which could save them from serious injuries and even death, in a road accident or collision."
"The Abu Dhabi Police will continue to raise awareness among motorists, particularly young drivers, about the dangers of speeding and reckless driving, which is a crucial step to help minimise and avoid traffic accidents and the loss of lives," added the police official.
The police shared the top reasons that led to motorcycle accidents in the past five years: mainly lack of attention on the road, as well as speeding without taking into account road conditions. Other primary reasons for bike accidents were sudden deviations and the poor lane discipline.
Motorcyclists also caused crashes by entering a road without ensuring it is clear, as well as jumping the red light signal.
The police also urged motorcycle drivers to abide by the traffic laws and to ensure they are driving with registered license plates. They also warned about the dangers of overtaking between vehicles at intersections.
Police also warned motorists against irresponsible driving, speeding and drifting on the main roads and in residential areas.
During the workshop, police discussed with the young drivers about the safety standards of motorbikes and the bike types can be driven on paved or unpaved roads, as well as the proper agencies to purchase bikes from.
Police also stressed that drivers must ensure the bike's safety, the validity of the front and rear tyres as well as the motorcycle lights. The authorities also warned motorcyclists against allowing children to ride bikes, even if it is around residential neighbourhoods or sandy areas, which may lead to disastrous consequences.
At the meeting, the motorcyclists called for the revision of the curriculum used in driving schools for issuing motorcycle licences.
Officials who participated in the discussion included, Sheikh Suhail bin Hasher Al Maktoum and Brigadier Khalifa Mohammed Al Khaili, Director of the Traffic and Patrols Directorate.
Other officials included Brigadier-General Ahmed Abdullah Al Shehhi, deputy director of the Directorate of Traffic and Patrols at the Abu Dhabi Police, as well as officials from Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi