Driving is a privilege and not a right. It is more than just knowing how to use the accelerator, brake pedals and steering wheel and moving a vehicle from one place to another. Once you are given a driver’s licence, you are also bestowed the responsibility to become a safe driver.

driving

Driving entails calmness, control and concentration with consideration and respect for others. Your safety and the safety of other motorists and pedestrians depends on you when you are on the wheel. According to the data pthe total number of road accidents in Qatar in 2019 was about 6,546, an increase from the previous year. There were also 44 pedestrian deaths recorded last year due to traffic accidents.

Here are some simple practices that you should follow to become a responsible and safe driver:

Share the road with other motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians

Keep in mind that these are the most vulnerable elements on the road. They have to be recognised and respected and be given priority in crossings, foot paths, sidewalks or roundabouts. Look both ways at an intersection before going again after the light turns green. Before you cross, take a quick peak left and right to be sure that no other cars are coming through the intersection.

distracted driving

Never become distracted while driving

Don’t use your cell phone or do anything that will divert your attention from the road. When you’re behind the wheel, you have to be fully focused on what’s ahead of you, not a variety of other things that may be going on inside of your car. If you are playing music, put it on a reasonable volume.

Never drive when physically or mentally exhausted

Another way to be a responsible driver is to avoid driving when you’re feeling fatigued. If you’re having trouble staying awake, you should definitely not get behind the wheel. Take a power nap. Have your dose of caffeine. Or if you’re on a long drive, have someone to take turns with. But keep in mind that in Qatar, it’s not allowed to have more than four persons in a vehicle including the driver, although families are exempted. Wearing a face mask is compulsory as a precautionary measure against COVID-19.

FOUR PERSONS IN A VEHICLE

Know the traffic laws and follow them

These include always using your signals indicating when you will turn, stop, or switch lanes and stay within a safe speed. Go the speed limit and keep your distance. No one likes a tailgater. Using a seat belt while driving also shows that you are aware of its importance in reducing the risk of accidents. For your safety, buckle up.USE SEATBELT

When parking, make sure that your car is positioned properly

Make sure it is not parked legally and is not rolling away on a hill or blocking traffic or pedestrians. Wrong parking blocking someone’s driveway is a traffic violation in Qatar. PARKING ACROSS DRIVEWAY

 

Always maintain your car

Ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive on the streets or highways. Always check your BLOWBAGET (Battery, Lights, Oil, Water, Brake, Air, Gas, Engine, Tire) before going on a drive.

Avoid road rage

Road rage can cause unnecessary aggressive driving. Take a deep breath and cool down before taking out your anger on the road or other vehicles/drivers around you.

Have a good insurance coverage

Being a responsible driver also means maintaining and carrying proper insurance coverage on your vehicle. Your vehicle must also be registered and your licence plate should have updated tags.

Always carry your driver’s licence with you

Not only is it the law, but if you get pulled over and don’t have a valid driver’s licence with you, the officer can cite you with an additional ticket. To make it easy to find your licence, put it in your wallet or purse and always leave it in the same spot in your home.

Related article: Obtaining a driving license in Qatar

The traffic laws are implemented to protect the community and all road users, so if someone ignores and keeps breaking them, there are consequences such as fines, suspension or even revocation of his/her driver’s licence.

Related article:  Motoring Essentials  



Author: Weslee Dizon

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