At least twenty-five people are killed every day and 38,000 injured annually in traffic accidents in the Kingdom, mainly due to non-compliance with traffic safety rules, according to Eastern Province Traffic Safety Committee Secretary General Abdullah Al-Rajhi.

He said economic losses resulting from traffic accidents were estimated at about SR 27 billion annually. Speaking at a press conference here Tuesday to discuss details of the fourth Best Driver Award here Tuesday, Al-Rajhi said they were considering the introduction of an award for the best female driver next year.

The current award aims to raise awareness among drivers and road users, highlight the importance of observing traffic rules and encourage drivers to comply with road regulations.Saudi Traffic Safety Association (Salamah) President Dr. Abdul Hamid Al-Meajil said that the award includes several categories.

For his part, the head of traffic safety section of the traffic police in the Eastern Province, Col. Abdul Latif Al-Obeidallah, said that an automated speed monitoring system covering all the GCC countries would be implemented soon in coordination with the customs departments.

Meanwhile, Jizan Traffic Police Director Col. Rashid Al-Ghamdi said traffic violators would have to undergo a week-long rehabilitation program held at several hospitals in the region in cooperation with the health department.
The program mainly aims at raising public safety awareness among the youth who account for the most number of road fatalities and injuries.

SOURCE : RIYADHDAILY