(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The number of deaths from road traffic injuries during Ramadan reduced by 40 percent last year compared to 2013, according to Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).
Every year, Hamad Trauma Centre (HTC) admits up to 900 patients with severe injuries as cases rise during the holy months.
The number of deaths was more than double during Ramadan in 2013 compared to other months, especially with regard to young men who are more likely to be involved in the serious accidents.
However, an increase in the number of awareness campaigns and enforcement of the traffic law led to a reduction in the number of injuries and deaths last year, HMC said.
HTC has advised motorists to take extra care during Ramadan.
"Let us build on the momentum from last year's successful efforts to make roads safer for all during Ramadan.
"We advise road users to exercise extra patience and restraint as people may be rushing to break fast and motorists are more prone to impaired driving because they are distracted, tired or sleepy. They also need to take extra precautions to avoid preventable crashes due to over-speeding and humid and dusty conditions," said Dr Rafael Consunji, Director, HMC Injury Prevention Programme, the community outreach arm of HTC.
HTC also advised motorists and passengers to wear seatbelts. This is the only proven way to prevent severe injuries and deaths in crashes, it said, urging them to always listen to weather forecasts and general advice about driving conditions on radio or TV, so they can plan their routes and make earlier trips if necessary.
"Drive within speed limits and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front so you can apply the brake safely, avoid distractions such as mobile phones, earphones or the stereo, so you can pay full attention to road conditions.
"If you are a pedestrian or cyclist, use the bike lanes, pedestrian crossings and sidewalks built especially for you. "Walk in the direction facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles and they will not suddenly emerge from behind or beside you," HMC said.
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