In the UAE, drivers blocking traffic during accidents face a Dh1,000 fine. Authorities have also clarified additional penalties and rules to ensure road safety and smooth traffic flow.
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In the UAE, drivers blocking traffic during accidents face a Dh1,000 fine. Authorities have also clarified additional penalties and rules to ensure road safety and smooth traffic flow.
Curious about a crash on the road? In the UAE, stopping or slowing down could cost you Dh1,000.
Motorists not involved in an accident are strictly advised against stopping or reducing speed near the scene. Such behaviour can delay ambulances reaching injured people and potentially endanger lives.
It can also disrupt traffic flow, increasing travel time for other drivers trying to reach their destinations.
According to the UAE Ministry of Interior, 630 fines were issued last year for “obstructing traffic during accidents,” with most violations recorded in Dubai.
Breakdown of violations: 87 in Abu Dhabi, 411 in Dubai, 71 in Sharjah, 4 in Ajman, 30 in Ras Al Khaimah, and 27 in Umm Al Quwain.
Under UAE traffic regulations, additional fines apply for not yielding during road accidents.
Obstructing traffic in any way results in a Dh500 fine. Meanwhile, failing to give way to emergency vehicles—including ambulances, police cars, or official convoys—is treated as a serious offence due to its potential consequences.
This violation carries a Dh3,000 fine, a 30-day vehicle impoundment, and six black points on the driver’s record.
Last year, traffic authorities across the UAE recorded 325 violations for drivers who did not yield to emergency vehicles, ambulances, police vehicles, or official convoys.
On May 30, Abu Dhabi Police launched the campaign “Don’t Hesitate—Give Way Immediately” to promote responsible driving and highlight the critical need to yield to emergency vehicles and equipment.
The campaign provided six key instructions for different traffic situations:
On main roads: Emergency vehicles travel in the left lane. Drivers must immediately shift to the right lane when such vehicles approach.
During traffic jams: The road shoulder is reserved exclusively for emergency vehicles; drivers must not use it under any circumstances.
On internal streets: Drivers should give way by moving right or left between lanes, particularly where shoulders are absent.
At intersections: Vehicles on side streets with a green light must stop fully and allow emergency vehicles to pass. Emergency vehicles may override red lights but typically proceed cautiously after a brief pause.
In roundabouts: Emergency vehicles pass through carefully, and other drivers must yield by avoiding entry. Vehicles already inside should advance and clear the path to the right promptly.
On two-way single-lane roads: Emergency vehicles move through the center. Cars ahead must move as far right as possible without using the shoulder, while oncoming traffic must also shift right to create a clear path.
Abu Dhabi Police campaign urges drivers to give way to emergency vehicles, follow clear guidelines, and ensure road safety, preventing delays and saving lives.
The Abu Dhabi Police campaign also emphasises the importance of remaining calm and alert when emergency vehicles approach. Drivers are advised to check mirrors and signal clearly while moving aside, ensuring a smooth passage for ambulances, fire trucks, or police vehicles. Pedestrians are also reminded to avoid crossing roads in such situations. The initiative highlights that quick, coordinated responses can save lives and reduce delays in critical medical or security situations. Public awareness materials, including posters, social media content, and workshops, are part of the campaign to educate motorists about best practices, reinforcing a culture of safety and responsibility on all roads.
Comments
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miaqueen
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