Abu Dhabi, Sep 2 (Emirates 247): Seat belt violations decreased to 7,592 during the period from July 1st through the end of August, from 11,991 during the corresponding period last year, according to the Traffic and Patrols Directorate at Abu Dhabi Police.

The amended executive regulations of the Federal Traffic Law on the rules and procedures of traffic control took effect on July 1st as per the Ministerial Resolution No. 178 of 2017.

Lt. Colonel Salah Al-Humairi, Deputy-Director of the Abu Dhabi Traffic Department, pointed out that the purpose of the new amendments is to maintain safety and prevent injuries and deaths resulting from car accidents.

"WHO statistics point out that wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of death for people in front seats by 40 to 50 percent and by 25 to 75 percent for passengers in rear seats," he remarked.

According to the new amendment, the fine for failing to wear a seat belt is AED400, with the violator to be slapped four black points.

Al-Humairi highlighted the importance of getting children below four years old to sit in the rear seats as per the law.