The study commissioned by QIC Insured and conducted by global market research company YouGov is the first long running study commissioned to quantify perceptions of road safety and the dimensions of reckless driving in Qatar. The ‘Qatar Road Safety Monitor’ is based on the views of a representative sample of Qatar’s population. The study aims to understand trends with regards to the biggest causes of accidents, in comparison with the situation 6 months ago.

Commenting on the results Ahmed Al Jarboey, Senior Claims Manager at QIC Insured, said: “There are plentiful opinions about various driving experiences in Qatar but very few hard facts that provide insight into safe driving. Aiming to bridge this gap, we commissioned this ongoing study twice yearly to generate data and raise awareness for encouraging safe and responsible motoring in support of the goals set out by the Government of Qatar to increase road safety in the country.”

Senior Claims Manager at QIC Ahmed Al Jarboey

A relatively small portion of participants 22 percent of motorists from Qatar state that traffic has become more dangerous in comparison to the last six months – the highest peer country scores 53 percent in this category. Similarly, positive trends exist with regards to commute times, whereby only 38 percent stated longer commute times versus 6 months ago, and a whopping 81 percent approve of improved road infrastructure. 57 percent of Qatar’s motorists claim higher driving enjoyment than 6 months ago, which is the highest value among the peer countries too.

Although the comparison with the peer countries in the field of reckless driving is mainly positive for Qatar, the absolute levels of perceived misbehavior demand more efforts of the involved stakeholders. This holds true for tailgating (60 percent), distracted drivers (60 percent), speeding (46 percent) and abrupt lane changing (43 percent). 13 percent of Qatar’s motorists have been involved in accidents within the last 6 months, which is the 2nd lowest value among the peer countries.

Jarboey continueD: “This unique perception study provides valuable feedback about the impact of the involved stakeholders’ efforts aimed at increasing road safety, namely governmental entities, the media universe and road safety mindedorganisations like QIC Insured. We take pride in being at the forefront of such distinct initiatives as it endorses our efforts towards ensuring safety of   all road users and active support for the creation of safer roads in Qatar.”