Muscat – An Omani citizen died and four others were injured after their vehicle overturned and veered off the road in the Al Ghaftain area of Haima, Royal Oman Police (ROP) stated on Tuesday.

The accident occurred on Sultan Said bin Taimur Road, a major route used by motorists travelling between northern Oman and Dhofar.

Police Aviation transported the body from Haima Hospital to Bidbid. The four injured Omanis were taken by Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority vehicles to Nizwa and Khawla hospitals for treatment.

The incident comes amid renewed concern over serious accidents on routes leading to Dhofar during khareef, when road traffic rises as visitors travel to Salalah and other destinations.

Till July 20, ROP had recorded eight deaths and several injuries in crashes linked to journeys to and from Dhofar this season. Earlier accidents included collisions and vehicle rollovers in Qatbit, Nimr and Qarn Al Alam.

Authorities have reported motorists travelling at speeds exceeding 200kmph on Sultan Said bin Taimur Road.

The Public Prosecution has warned that excessive speed, reckless driving and drifting attract strict legal action.

Under Article 50 of the Traffic Law, driving at a speed that endangers lives or property can result in imprisonment of up to two years, a fine of up to RO3,000 or both.

Police have urged motorists undertaking long journeys to observe speed limits, avoid dangerous overtaking and stop for sufficient rest when tired.