- Road traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities peak in the holy month of Ramadan.
- We witness hundreds of accidents and dozens of fatalities every year.
- Ramadan is the perfect time to start with better road safety habits!
Road traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities peak in the holy month of Ramadan. It is sad to witness hundreds of accidents and dozens of fatalities every year. Ramadan is a very special time and it’s all about being with the ones close to us, which creates a lot of traffic! This festive period poses unique challenges for all kind of traffic participants.
The Ramadan specific lifestyle has physical effects on our body – especially when coinciding with the hot summer season like this year. Fasting can result in dehydration and low blood sugar, which in turn can limit our attentiveness, concentration, vision and reaction. In addition to fasting, the unusual eating and sleeping patterns can cause fatigue, exhaustion, impatience and distraction.
Just before sunset is a problematic time to be on the roads, because motorists tend to rush towards their Iftar appointments. This pre-Iftar rush hour is a mix of psychological urges and physical needs and motorists might use this as an excuse to misbehave on the roads. Hence, all traffic participants (motorists, pedestrians, motorcycle riders, bicyclists, etc.) must be extra careful in this time slot!
The top-5 most important tips RoadSafetyUAE wants to give for Ramadan are:
• Be aware of your own limitations!
• Watch out for other traffic participants potentially under the same limitations.
• Expect the unexpected – we all MUST drive defensively!
• Plan your schedule properly and leave early to avoid the need of rushing and speeding.
• Always wear your seat belt – Ramadan is a good time to start this habit!
Motorists must realize, that even if they arrive late for a Ramadan event, people will understand. Time management is vital and motorists are urged to leave early enough and to allow for a puffer time to reach their destination on time.” Edelmann continues: “We need a heightened awareness as well as a caring attitude for others in this special period of the year.
