More than 1,000 motorists were fined for being distracted while behind the wheel in Ras Al Khaimah last year, police have said.
The dangerous loss of concentration on the emirate's roads led to 136 accidents, new figures have revealed.
Colonel Ahmed Al Naqbi, director of the traffic and patrols department, at RAK Police, said 1,029 violations - including for using a mobile phone and even eating while driving - were recorded in 2018.
“Not paying attention to the road while driving can lead to sudden swerving, failure to leave a safe distance between vehicles and lack of lane discipline which can cause accidents,” said Col Al Naqbi.
“Using the phone, eating, adjusting the radio station or even fixing your clothes while driving can lead to sudden swerving or hitting the vehicle in front or on the side.
“Being distracted for only a few seconds while driving can lead to serious accidents.”
He said that male motorists aged between 20 and 25 were the most to commit such violations, including use their phones while driving.
“Distracted driving is considered one of the most serious traffic violations that can lead to tragic accidents, injuries and deaths among motorists, passengers and road users,” said Col Al Naqbi.
Only last month, Abu Dhabi police warned motorists against playing games on their mobile phones while driving.
Tips on buying property during a pandemic
Islay Robinson, group chief executive of mortgage broker Enness Global, offers his advice on buying property in today's market.
While many have been quick to call a market collapse, this simply isn’t what we’re seeing on the ground. Many pockets of the global property market, including London and the UAE, continue to be compelling locations to invest in real estate.
While an air of uncertainty remains, the outlook is far better than anyone could have predicted. However, it is still important to consider the wider threat posed by Covid-19 when buying bricks and mortar.
Anything with outside space, gardens and private entrances is a must and these property features will see your investment keep its value should the pandemic drag on. In contrast, flats and particularly high-rise developments are falling in popularity and investors should avoid them at all costs.
Attractive investment property can be hard to find amid strong demand and heightened buyer activity. When you do find one, be prepared to move hard and fast to secure it. If you have your finances in order, this shouldn’t be an issue.
Lenders continue to lend and rates remain at an all-time low, so utilise this. There is no point in tying up cash when you can keep this liquidity to maximise other opportunities.
Keep your head and, as always when investing, take the long-term view. External factors such as coronavirus or Brexit will present challenges in the short-term, but the long-term outlook remains strong.
Finally, keep an eye on your currency. Whenever currency fluctuations favour foreign buyers, you can bet that demand will increase, as they act to secure what is essentially a discounted property.
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