Ahmed Al Jarboey
DOHA: The data of 2,122 accidents occurred during Ramadan 2017, collected and analysed by QIC-Insured reveals that older traffic participants (40+) are over-proportionally more involved in traffic accidents than younger motorists.
The Ramadan specific lifestyle has physical effects on our body, especially as it coincides with the hot summer season like this year. Fasting can result in dehydration and low blood sugar, which in turn can limit our attentiveness, concentration, vision and reaction. In addition to fasting, the unusual eating and sleeping patterns can cause fatigue, exhaustion, impatience and distraction, said a press release issued by QIC-Insured.
QIC-Insured analysed Ramadan claims data of 2,122 reported accidents/claims in 2017 in Qatar in order to draw learnings for this year’s Ramadan. Ahmed Jarboey, Senior Claims Manager of QIC Insured states: “Based on the analysed data, we want to flag 3 main findings: Older motorists (40+) must take extra caution; mind the morning rush-hours; male motorists need to pay extra attention towards their driving attitude.
Jarboey continues: “It is of utmost importance to know how the Ramadan lifestyle can affect our driving behaviour, as well as the driving behaviour of other traffic participants.”
QIC-Insured has provided some tips and tricks to avert road accidents. 5 vital ‘Tips & Tricks’ to drive safe during the holy month of Ramadan include: Be aware of your own limitations; watch out for other traffic participants potentially under the same limitations; expect the unexpected — we all MUST drive defensively; plan your schedule properly and leave early to avoid rushing and speeding; always wear your seat belt.
Jarboey continues, “Motorists must realise that even if they arrive late for Iftar or an event, people will understand. Good time management is crucial and motorists are urged to leave early and keep sufficient time in hand to reach their destination. We need to display a caring attitude for ourselves and for others in this very special period.”
The main findings of the survey are: As many of us start working later in the day, we see the majority of claims / accidents happening in the late-morning office rush hours.
The claims / accidents are evenly spread over the 4 weeks of Ramadan. The most dangerous weekdays are Tuesdays and least dangerous weekdays are Thursdays.
Based on the accident data, it is observed that older traffic participants (40+) are over-proportionally more involved in traffic accidents than younger motorists. Likewise, traffic participants belonging to the age group of 30-35 years seem to be equally prone to being involved in accidents. The data sets also reveal that males are significantly more accident prone than females.
