Technology can help save lives on roads

Long working hours without a break is draining schedule for drivers, who by the way are not valued in the right way, MAN Truck and Bus (Middle East and Africa) managing director Franz Freiherr von Redwitz told Khaleej Times.
Talking about the death toll on roads, he said technology can go a long way in reducing the number of vehicle accidents. "In 2012, the number of deaths from road accidents was 6.71 per 100,000 population in the UAE. The UAE Vision 2021 aims to reduce this to three deaths per 100,000," he said.
"There are technical advancements that help reduce accidents. Anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control and lane departure warning system are some of the steps that will help in this regard. There is technology to avoid collisions, which vibrates the driver's seat if a risk is seen. A smart card can give all details about the speeding drivers, number of hours worked, violations and other data. All these technologies go a long way in cutting the number of accidents and deaths."
Redwitz laid importance on educating the truck drivers and the general public. "The public needs to realise that trucks take a bit longer to stop on braking. So they shouldn't pull up in front of a truck. There should be a mutual respect shown in traffic."
MAN Truck and Bus Middle East and Road Safety UAE recently held an event to create awareness as part of the Abu Dhabi Police workshop for road safety.
Redwitz said the law enforcement agencies should ensure the load on trucks is correct and following all the norms. "A truck carries heavy load and an accident will lead to loss of lives and money."
As a preventive measure, Redwitz stressed the need for coffee breaks among long hours of driving.
"There should be a balance between work and rest. I know drivers who are 17 hours behind the wheels. In the Middle East, there is no maximum working hours for truck drivers."
On how the region looks after the driver, he said: "Unfortunately, drivers are not valued in the right way. They are a neglected lot."
However, the UAE Government is taking all steps to reduce the number of fatalities, he said. "It's the duty of everyone to act responsibly when on road." Redwitz added.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi