Disturbing news reported recently by the Libyan Ministry of Public Security states that "60 People Dead, 123 Seriously Injured in 263 Car Accidents in Libya in One Week", between the 19th and the 26th of July 2008. Causes include high speed, reckless driving, cell phones and breaking traffic laws and regulations. These figures become more disturbing when one considers the small number of the Libyan population.
In Europe driving is an advanced aspect of European culture; while in Libya, likewise many similar countries, driving is still way behind. Foreign drivers not used to driving in Libya need to bear in mind:
One: Lack of total availability of road signs, and if found, mostly would be in Arabic and therefore of no use to tourists and foreign visitors. If Libya truly needs to open its doors to international investors, then English needs to be incorporated across Libya.
Two: The inability of the police to enforce traffic laws across thousands of miles of roads, which prevents some drivers from observing basic driving regulations.
Three: The occasional Libyan wind-blown sand can render visibility very poor, and in many respects it is like driving in thick fog.
Four: Stray animals, like camels, especially at night, can be dangerous.
Five: The impossibility to anticipate the foolishness of some drivers, regardless of whether you are in Europe or Africa, always calls for vigilance.
Six: Driving to desert areas, like Ghadames, at night can be risky, owing to the sudden build-up of sand mounds in the middle of the road; during the day, these can be easily spotted from a safe distance - don't drive at night!
