JSF policy paper calls for comprehensive traffic sign management system

AMMAN — For a more effective, efficient and sustainable transportation sector, it is necessary to adopt a comprehensive policy for traffic sign management systems, according to a recent policy paper by the Jordan Strategy Forum (JSF).

Marking the 7th UN Road Safety Week, which focuses on sustainable transport, the JSF paper, titled “Investing in Traffic Safety to Unlock Economic Potential” analyses traffic accidents costs, major contributing factors leading to crashes and statistics related to the number of registered vehicles in the Kingdom.

The paper, quoting a World Health Organisation (WHO) report, showed that leading causes of road accidents include speeding, drunk or drug-impaired driving, avoiding safety gears, distraction and poor road infrastructure.

According to data issued by the Public Security Directorate (PSD), the number of registered vehicles has substantially increased in the past 50 years. In 2021, there were 1,795,215 registered vehicles. The costs of traffic accidents during the same year amounted to JD320 million.

The data showed that drivers less than 41 years of age make up the largest proportion of drivers in Jordan in 2021.

“Road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with around 1.3 million people killed and as many as 50 million people injured each year.” according to the WHO website.

Among the recommendations featured in the policy paper is the development of the public transportation system, promoting cooperation among various stakeholders and raising road safety awareness.

“Improving drivers’ on-road behaviour is the number one factor that would develop a safer road environment and more secure commute in Jordan,” Hala Said, a driving instructor, told The Jordan Times.  

Driving training provides new learner drivers with fundamental driving skills and theoretical knowledge. However, this does not guarantee a decline in the number of road accidents.

“What is important is to learn to drive, and not just merely learn to pass the driving test,” she said. To boost road safety, Said advised drivers to be mindful of other vehicles around, and follow road instructions.

“Safety on roads can only be ensured if each one of us abides by the rules, remains focused and responsible,” according to Sameh Al Majali, who is also a driving instructor and the owner of a driving school.

A significant number of drivers in Jordan multitask and use their phones while driving, and this leads to distracted driving, she added. 

Noor Manaseer, 24, told The Jordan Times that “the majority of drivers in Jordan do not use blinkers,” noting that it is widely assumed that turn signals are for new or “inexperienced” drivers.