RIYADH: The number of road accidents cannot be brought down as long as motorists do not cooperate with the authorities in implementing rules, Maj. Gen. Abdul Hadi Al-Shahrani, Madinah district police chief, has said.

Addressing the audience during an event to mark the GCC Traffic Week in Madinah on Monday, he said it is everyone's responsibility to make driving safe, which is possible if rules such as speeding or talking on the mobile phone are followed.

A large number of civilians as well as members of the armed forces were present during the event.

The traffic week, which was launched on Monday, is being observed in all parts of the Kingdom.

The aim of the event is to create awareness among people about traffic rules and hazards people face due to violations. The theme of the event this year is “Your decisions determine your destiny.”

Al-Shahrani commended the participants and organizers for ensuring the campaign's success.

The police chief said the event is significant since it not only disseminates information on traffic rules but also contributes to reducing the number of road accidents.

On a directive issued by Madinah Gov. Prince Faisal bin Salman in December, the authorities concerned have ensured smooth traffic flow on major thoroughfares of the Holy City.

According to a top official, at least one traffic accident occurs in the Kingdom every minute.

Saudi Arabia witnesses up to 7,000 deaths and over 39,000 injuries annually.

The Kingdom ranks at the top of the list of the world’s countries regarding the number of total traffic deaths per 100,000 people, which is about 21 deaths.