Teens responsible for 13% of road accidents: Survey

A recent survey on traffic revealed that the primary causes of road accidents are speeding, running traffic lights and drifting, with 13 percent of all accidents involving drivers under the age of 18.
“Cars driven by teenagers is an issue which needs to be addressed, as drivers of this age group need special attention and supervision from fathers,” said Col. Ali Al-Rashidi, spokesman for Traffic Department.
“Special attention must be given to boys who have temporary driving permit that is given to 17-year-olds.
The violations perpetrated by this segment of drivers are attributed to their imitation of inappropriate driving techniques.”
He added that the lack of experience of young drivers and cultural norms have a direct impact on car accidents.
Detecting violations is only part of the solution, he said. The collaboration of parents, schools and mosques plays a pivotal role in limiting dangerous driving behaviors.
Al-Rashidi said the 18-29 age group constituted 38 percent of those involved in traffic accidents, while the 30-39 group accounted for 24 percent.
High speed and traffic-light running constitute 23.6 percent and 21 percent of accidents respectively, he said.