Whether you are a learner or an expert driver, unfortunately, the possibility of accidents is always there while driving on the roads. Here are quick safety tips to ensure safe driving in UAE.

Driving safe in the UAE

Car safety in the UAE has been a matter of priority for the longest time. In recent years, the UAE has seen a gradual decline in the overall number of injuries and deaths caused by road accidents. A study was conducted in 2019 on road accidents in Abu Dhabi by researchers at the United Arab Emirates University; it found that the number of crashes involving injuries has significantly decreased over the years. This has been possible due to technological advancements in the automobile industry along with vigilance and safe driving of the residents. Since tragedies strike at the most unexpected times, it is better to take the necessary precautions to avoid being part of them.

Quick Read Section

• Car accidents are not only a threat to personal safety but also take a significant toll on the country’s economy. Ensure you are taking the following steps to avoid accidents:
• Keep your eyes on road
• Keep your hands on the wheel
• Maintain safe distance
• Follow traffic rules
• Service your car
• Ensure adequate rest before your drive

Given below are a few tips explained for safe driving in the UAE:

1. Keep eyes on the road:

This is the most important factor as far as car safety is concerned. Driving is an exercise that requires your complete undivided attention. The moment you lose focus you are at great risk. Avoid taking phone calls while driving - even on hands free mode. Do not play extremely loud music. Any other distractions should be avoided till you reach your destination. Car accidents often occur due to external factors as well. The UAE being part of a desert region faces its fair share of sandstorms & dust storms which affects visibility while driving. It is advised to be extra careful and attentive on such days since low visibility can hamper your judgement. Night time driving also requires drives to be extra-cautious even though the streets are well lit.

2. Keep hands on the wheel:

As mentioned earlier, all forms of distractions should be avoided, and your hands should be on the power steering wheel at all times. Do not pick up your phone while driving unless absolutely necessary. A second of distraction can become a risky affair. It is important to keep both hands on the steering wheel in a 10 to 2 position or 3 to 9 position (clock direction)to make careful and calculated decisions while driving. .

3. Maintain safe distance:

An essential part of car safety in the UAE involves maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you. With high-speed roads, the biggest risk arises in the event of sudden braking. Do not tailgate other cars. The research study conducted in Abu Dhabi found that most crashes were caused due to tailgating. If the vehicle in front of you suddenly hits the brakes, you should have enough time to process that and act accordingly. Keeping a safe gap with car ahead of you is extremely important.  You must leave a distance of 2 cars length in normal traffic conditions and 4 cars lengths in low visibility conditions. This helps you get that window of time to decide your response.

4. Follow traffic rules

This goes without saying, ensure you are wearing a seatbelt at all times. Be mindful of the traffic around you and change lanes carefully after indicating. Do not jump red lights. Drivers often speed through the blinking green or yellow light to save time; this can be incredibly risky and pose a threat to everyone’s safety.

5. Service your car

Make sure your car is serviced as per the schedule and in proper working condition before you commence your journey. Any disregarded error message in your car can create bigger problems on the road in case it breaks down. Car safety shouldn’t be compromised. Ensure your car goes through regular maintenance and checks to avoid any mishaps. Not servicing your car periodically can also reduce the sale value while reselling the vehicle to another party.

6. Ensure adequate rest before your drive

The last but the most important tip is to be well-rested before you get behind the wheel. Driver fatigue is the biggest factor that negatively affects road judgment. Do not drive if you haven’t had adequate sleep or if you are overworked. This is particularly relevant to night-time driving as the most number of car accidents were reported between 10 PM – 6 AM.

Conclusion

Safe driving is your responsibility in the interest of public safety. The given tips are just a few measures you can take to keep yourself and others safe. Always be prepared, exercise your judgment carefully in risky situations, and identify the types of drivers around you. Do not make rash decisions on the road.

In the unfortunate situation of an accident, your car insurance safeguards you from legal and financial liability. For best in class car insurance at affordable premiums, contact our team of experts today!

Drive safe!