Safe Roads in Oman
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Over the last three years, the number of accidents in Oman has dropped, but the number of casualties from accidents has remained constant. Statistics have established that the leading cause of Oman’s accidents is poor behaviours among drivers-over speeding, negligence, and overtaking. The royal police in Oman have taken it upon themselves to regulate the drivers’ destructive behaviours by introducing strict traffic laws (Umar & Egbu, 2018). Additionally, the police have launched campaigns on road safety in Oman.
Traffic laws are detailed and uncompromisingly imposed. There are speed cameras positioned every two kilometres, for instance, in Muscat. Basic traffic rules like wearing a seatbelt, driving under the speed limit, and not talking on the phone while driving are imposed in Oman. However, accidents still occur at a higher rate, with 6279 accidents in 2016 compared to 4219 in 2015 (Umar & Egbu, 2018). Therefore, more efforts must be applied to create road safety in Oman. Drivers who flaunt safety rules should not only pay hefty fines; they should face jail term no matter how small the issue seems. The penalties imposed on drivers may seem like a usual thing by now. Most drivers may break the rules knowing that the consequence is paying fines, something that they can comfortably afford.
The speed cameras must be reviewed to identify and punish reckless drivers who may find it easy to break traffic rules in areas without traffic police. Areas with driving hazards like camels or goats must be marked with signs to alert drivers of the anticipated dangers. Driving around regions such as Muscat after dark can be risky because animals are frequently crossing and can cause accidents. Roads leading away from urban areas in Oman are often slippery following a sudden downpour. Dry riverbeds tend to overspill onto roads. On mountain roads, Sabkha, a common salt crust, and soft sand can lead to loss of vehicle control. All areas with environmental hazards should be marked to remind natives and inform new drivers.
During public holidays and religious functions, roads are busy in Oman. Drivers must be reminded to take extra care to avoid accidents. The police should also be on the lookout on these busy days to ensure that drivers observe all traffic rules. The rules governing roundabouts may not be familiar to a new driver. Unlike in many other places, the drivers on the inside lane have the right of way in Oman. Therefore, new drivers must be keen to observe the rules and avoid collisions.
On the other hand, pedestrians must be strictly governed by traffic rules. Crossing the road should only be at the zebra crossing or using footbridges. Traffic police must prohibit pedestrians from putting on earphones or listen to loud music when walking along the highway. Sometimes pedestrians do not hear the hooting of cars, hence posing a danger of being knocked off by speeding cars. Black spots along the road must be marked to remind both drivers and pedestrians to be careful around those areas. During the rainy season, pedestrians should be advised to walk as far from the road as possible because some roads may be slippery. Cyclists should observe traffic regulations as well and wear reflective jackets when cycling at night.
Conclusion
Although drivers are often responsible for road accidents in Oman, every person has a role in improving safety. If everyone plays their part in adhering to traffic rules, the roads will be safer in Oman.
Reference
Umar, T., & Egbu, C. (2018). Causes of construction accidents in Oman. Middle East Journal of Management, 5(1), 21-33.