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93 percent of traffic accidents during this period were caused by distracting driving, while 7 percent were due to other factors, totaling 3,100,638 violations recorded in the first half of 2024. Director of Traffic Awareness Department Colonel Fahad Al-Issa told KUNA that one of the main causes of distraction while diving is the use of a phone. He confirmed that in the first half of 2024, there were over 30,000 violations for phone use while driving.

Artificial intelligence (AI) cameras have been installed to monitor seatbelt use and phone use while driving; there are currently 252 of these cameras spread across the six governorates, aimed at checking traffic violations and ensuring the safety of both citizens and residents, Colonel Al-Issa added. He stressed the importance of wearing seatbelts, avoiding speeding, and using phones while driving.

He also urged drivers to ensure that children are seated in the back for their safety and maintain safety distance to prevent collisions during sudden stops.

On his part, Assistant Director of the Traffic Awareness Department Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Bo Hassan told KUNA that the department has intensified traffic safety campaigns across various media outlets, including television, radio, print, and social media platforms, to raise awareness on this issue. The new AI cameras are aimed at enhancing road safety by effectively detecting violations and ensuring compliance with traffic laws, he added.

Lieutenant Colonel Bo Hassan emphasized the importance of raising a strong traffic safety culture among drivers, adhering to traffic rules, wearing seatbelts, and avoiding phone use while driving to safeguard themselves and other road users. Director of the Medical Emergency Department at the Ministry of Health, Dr Ahmad Al-Shatti, stated to KUNA that between January 1 and September 30, ambulance services transported 7,774 accidents. Dr Al-Shatti called on the public to follow traffic regulations, avoid using phones while driving, and stay alert so as to protect lives and property. – KUNA