Schools praise UAE traffic campaign that rewards safe driving

UAE schools and traffic officials are applauding a new road safety initiative that allows drivers to remove up to four black points from their licenses by pledging to drive safely on the first day of the academic year. The Ministry of Interior's nationwide program, which launched on August 31, entitles motorists who avoid accidents and violations during the first day of school to have their points removed by September 25.

Simon Crane, headmaster of Brighton College Dubai, expressed optimism that the campaign would encourage good driving habits throughout the school year. He emphasized the importance of maintaining safe driving practices such as slowing down near schools, avoiding mobile phones, maintaining safe distances, and giving priority to pedestrians.

The school will deploy additional staff and security personnel on the first day of school to manage traffic and ensure pupils arrive safely. Parents will also be reminded about designated drop-off areas, safe driving practices, and the importance of allowing additional time for their journey.

Dr Mustafa Al Dah, an expert in safe driving for young motorists and riders, praised the timing of the initiative as perfect. He pointed out that the start of a new school year often brings about changes and increased traffic, necessitating extra vigilance around schools and during the school run. Thomas Edelmann, founder of Road Safety UAE, agreed, stating that rewarding good driving behavior can be as effective as penalizing bad behavior.

He believed the campaign was timely, given the UAE's recent increase in major road accidents, many of which were attributed to sudden swerving, distracted driving, tailgating, and lack of attention.