Dubai Traffic Law Amendments: In a bid to promote road safety and deter reckless driving behavior, Dubai has implemented significant amendments to its traffic law. The revised law introduces stricter penalties and hefty fines for traffic violations, particularly targeting red light jumping. These measures aim to safeguard lives, and properties, and create a safer environment on the city’s roads.
Dubai Expat’s Costly Lesson
Last month, Dubai-based ex-pat Mark (name changed as requested) learned the consequences of jumping a red light the hard way. He was fined Dh1,000 and received 12 black points on his driving license. Additionally, his car was impounded for 30 days, requiring him to pay Dh3,000 for its release. However, under the new traffic law, Mark would face even harsher penalties if he were to repeat the same violation, including accumulating more black points and paying a staggering Dh50,000 to recover his impounded vehicle.
Road Safety Experts Support Stricter Penalties
Road safety experts and advocates commend the amendments to Dubai’s traffic law, emphasizing their potential to send a strong message to erring motorists. Thomas Edelmann, founder, and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, stated that the revisions address various forms of reckless driving behavior, with a specific focus on red light jumping. Edelmann stressed the need to combat distracted behavior among motorists, as many red light violations are linked to driver inattention. The amendments aim to ensure traffic safety, protect lives, and safeguard properties within the emirate.
Promoting a Safer Environment
Dubai residents, such as long-time resident Lara Branaghan, welcome the decision to impose stiffer penalties. Branaghan acknowledges the increasing speed of cars, wider roads, and bold driving habits of some motorists. By imposing higher fines, the authorities aim to make drivers think twice before engaging in dangerous behaviors like running red lights. The objective of the amendments is clear: to enhance traffic safety, reduce accidents, and foster a culture of safety on Dubai’s roads.
Repercussions for Repeat Offenders
Repeat offenders will face more severe consequences under the revised traffic law. If a vehicle is impounded again within one year for the same offense, the impoundment period will be doubled, up to a maximum of 90 days. Furthermore, the release amount for an impounded vehicle will also be doubled, capped at Dh200,000, if the offense is repeated within one year. In addition to these penalties, non-UAE national drivers of heavy vehicles who run red lights may face administrative deportation from the UAE.
Requirements for Vehicle Release
According to the amended traffic law, vehicle owners must fulfill specific requirements for the release of impounded vehicles. These include settling all fines related to the vehicle according to the traffic file, rectifying the violation (including clearing black points) or addressing its causes, and complying with any other conditions stipulated by Dubai Police.
Conclusion
The recent amendments to Dubai’s traffic law reflect a firm commitment to road safety and aim to instill responsible driving habits among motorists. The introduction of stricter penalties, increased fines, and impoundment periods sends a clear message to drivers, emphasizing the importance of obeying traffic regulations and avoiding violations. By preventing accidents, saving lives, and staying on the right side of the law, residents and visitors can contribute to a safer driving environment in Dubai.