Traffic safety survey reveals major causes of accidents in Qatar
A public survey on traffic safety, conducted by the Qatar Ministry of Interior in coordination with the Statistics Authority and the National Committee for Traffic Safety showed the main reasons for traffic accidents in Qatar were due to negligent driving followed by the lack of awareness when it comes to traffic laws, and the use of mobiles while driving.
The high number of roadworks and closures, and a significant increase of vehicles on the road were also contributing factors.
Beyond major health and societal impacts, traffic accidents also impact the nation’s economy. In April 2012, experts in the United Arab Emirates calculated the economic burden of traffic accidents on the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) to an estimated 2.3 to 2.9 percent. The medical costs, damage and loss of property, insurance costs and legal costs all contribute to significant GDP loss in a nation.
The findings of the 4300 person survey led to recommendations of increasing traffic police on the roads, and the engagement of organisations in civil society to raise traffic awareness among the public. The recommendations also emphasise the importance of better coordination between the various agencies when designing and engineering roadworks.
Like this story? Share it.
