Cheap car rentals in Oman - Traffic Safety and Road Conditions

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Traffic Safety and Road Conditions

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Oman is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Good
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Availability of Roadside/Ambulance Assistance: Poor
(There is no ambulance service in Oman.)

Road conditions, lighting, and traffic safety in cities and on major highways are good. Travel between cities, especially at night, may be dangerous due to poor or no lighting, wandering livestock, and speeding drivers.

Local Traffic Laws: Observing traffic laws in Oman is a must. Seat belts are required, and the use of cellular telephones while driving is prohibited. Driving while under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited. There are stringent penalties for violation of these laws, particularly for driving under the influence of alcohol. In the event of a traffic violation and fine, drivers should pay the fine as directed and should not attempt to pay the fine or negotiate payment at the time of the traffic stop. In the event of an accident, the driver should not move the vehicle from the location of the accident until police grant permission; moving a vehicle is equivalent to an admission of guilt. The Royal Oman Police may be contacted at telephone 968-560-099

Licensing: Visitors should not drive without a valid license. Visitors in possession of a valid U.S. driver's license may drive rental vehicles, but residents must have an Omani driver's license. To obtain an Omani license, a U.S. citizen must have a U.S. license that has been valid for at least one year or must take a driving test.

Insurance: Visitors hiring rental cars are urged to insure the vehicles adequately against loss or damage. Residents may insure their vehicles outside the Sultanate; however, third party liability must be purchased locally.

Local Traffic Customs: The use of European-style traffic circles is prevalent in Oman. However, unlike European traffic practice, the driver on the inside lane always has priority. A car flashing its high beams is generally asking for a chance to pass.

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page road safety overseas feature at http://travel.state.gov/road-safety.html. For specific information concerning Omani driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, please contact the Omani Office of Tourism of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry via the Internet at http://www.omanet.com.