Qatar’s new operational plan for traffic safety for the years 2018-2022 will link insurance premiums to a driver’s road accident record and the risks to which the driver may be exposed, in addition to the driver’s age and type of vehicle driven.
The plan will also engage the insurance sector in road safety research and awareness programmes. Effective legislation for the age of vehicles on the road and screening procedures will be developed in accordance with international standards, reported Arab News.
In addition, the road and traffic data system will provide accurate data on road traffic and transport services at the national level, with electronic linkages among all stakeholders. This will improve the use of information, and allow constant updating and dissemination of traffic information. The IT system will have data on traffic accidents, traffic operations and infrastructure services.
There are plans too to develop strict laws to deal with driving without a licence, to reduce dangerous driving behaviour, and to design training and tests for drivers with the latest technology.
With regard to law enforcement, emphasis will be placed on traffic hotspots where fatal accidents occur.
On the education front, traffic safety will be taught in all schools, with emphasis on children receiving training in road safety outside schools, and involving community groups and government agencies in promoting road safety.
Legislation to support the movement of individuals and goods, transport facilities, pedestrian safety and the needs and requirements of road users with disabilities will be prepared, as well as measures covering hazardous loads.
In addition to cameras, tracking devices will be installed in heavy vehicles to record speeds and distances automatically. The quality of road networks will be upgraded. M