There were 29 accidents caused by motorist fatigue and drowsiness in traffic departments across the country last year, according to statistics from the Ministry of Interior.
Traffic Accidents Due to Driver Fatigue
The Ministry of the Interior reported 29 accidents last year that were caused by sleepy or exhausted drivers, according to data collected from traffic bureaus across the country. Location was the defining factor in classifying these incidents: Two incidents in Dubai and twenty-five in Ras Al Khaimah were reported.
In the previous year, a total of 37 fatigue-related accidents were recorded across the UAE. These included 28 in Abu Dhabi, two in Dubai, four in Sharjah, one in Umm Al Quwain, and two in Ras Al Khaimah. Police reports underscored the severity of such accidents, some of which resulted in fatalities and injuries. Authorities cautioned drivers about the dangers of driving while feeling tired or drowsy, highlighting how even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to tragic outcomes on the road.
As drivers admitted experiencing drowsiness behind the wheel, particularly during Ramadan, attributing it to altered sleep patterns and late-night activities. Studies emphasized that brief episodes of nodding off while driving could potentially cause fatal accidents.
Karim Mahmoud recounted a near-miss incident when he momentarily fell asleep at the wheel due to lack of sleep, urging others to pull over safely if feeling drowsy to prevent accidents.
Sayed Ezzat highlighted that drowsiness impairs a driver's ability to focus and react, significantly increasing the risk of serious accidents. He stressed the importance of refraining from driving while feeling tired to safeguard both the driver and other road users.
Other drivers echoed these concerns, describing overcoming drowsiness as a major challenge, particularly during Ramadan, when sleep schedules are disrupted.
Drivers emphasized the need for increased awareness campaigns by authorities, especially with the onset of the summer season and increased long-distance travel.
Recent studies equated the impact of drowsiness on driving with that of alcohol, underscoring the need for vigilance among drivers. Traffic experts and police urged drivers to stop and rest if feeling drowsy or stressed while driving, recommending a break on the roadside to restore alertness.
Police Recommendations
Police departments issued guidelines advising drivers to avoid driving under the influence of drowsiness and suggesting rest breaks to enhance mental acuity during long journeys. They also cautioned individuals with chronic conditions against driving after taking medications known to induce drowsiness, such as allergy medications, psychiatric drugs, and pain relievers.
As part of ongoing awareness efforts, Abu Dhabi Police specifically warned against driving while sleepy or fatigued, highlighting how sleepiness contributes to serious accidents like running red lights or sudden lane deviations. They emphasized the necessity of adequate sleep and rest before embarking on any journey by car.