90 die in road accidents in Dubai since January

Ninety people died in road accidents in Dubai from January to the end of August, according to traffic police.

Police said the fatal accidents were predominantly caused by motorists not maintaining a safe stopping distance between cars, speeding, not stopping at pedestrian crossings and sudden swerving.

Not leaving enough space between cars was the deadliest offence, claiming 54 lives with 22 pedestrians dying in runover accidents.

Col Saif Al Mazrouei, director of the traffic department, said the figure was an improvement likely due to the stronger traffic regulations introduced in July.

“There are a major decrease of deaths related to traffic accidents. The recent traffic rules’ amendment and the continuous awareness campaigns have raised residents’ awareness about the importance of following traffic rules,” he said.

Some 1,376 people were injured in car accidents over the past eight months.

Col Al Mazrouei said Dubai Traffic Police has made a huge effort over the past three years to reduce road fatalities.

"Several traffic safety campaigns were launched and more traffic police presence on the roads," said Col Al Mazrouei.