Image credit: WAM/Website
Abu Dhabi Police have issued a fresh call to motorists to maintain total concentration while navigating intersections and traffic signals, warning that momentary lapses in attention remain one of the leading causes of serious road accidents across the capital.
The advisory underscores growing concerns around driver behavior at traffic lights and junctions, areas identified as high-risk due to vehicle density, pedestrian movement, and split-second decision-making.
Read more-UAE central bank revokes Omda Exchange licence, imposes Dhs10m fine
According to authorities, even brief distractions can result in severe consequences for drivers, passengers, and other road users.
The alert specifically highlights the dangers of driver inattention when passing through traffic lights and executing left turns, a WAM report said. These scenarios, police noted, require heightened awareness due to changing signals, oncoming vehicles, and crossing pedestrians.
To reinforce the message, Abu Dhabi Police, in coordination with the Monitoring and Control Centre, released video footage documenting real-life accidents caused by a lack of focus and sudden vehicle deviations. The footage aims to demonstrate how routine distractions can escalate into life-altering incidents within seconds.
Distraction behind the wheel remains a key threat
The capital police stressed that performing multiple tasks behind the wheel, such as using mobile phones or engaging in other distracting activities, poses a significant risk to public safety. Drivers were urged to remain vigilant at all times, carefully observe pedestrian crossings and road signage, and strictly follow instructions issued by traffic patrol officers on duty.
Authorities emphasised that road safety depends on consistent compliance, particularly at intersections where errors can have a cascading impact on traffic flow and public safety.
Abu Dhabi Police also reminded motorists of the stringent legal consequences under Law No. (5) of 2020 concerning vehicle impoundment. The penalties for crossing a red light in the Emirate include a fine of Dhs1,000, 12 black points added to the driver’s file, and a 30-day vehicle impoundment.
In addition, motorists face a vehicle release fee of Dhs50,000 and a six-month driving license suspension starting from the date of withdrawal. Police further clarified that if the release fee is not paid within three months, the vehicle will be referred for sale at a public auction.
The campaign serves as a critical reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility. Authorities stressed that adherence to traffic laws is essential to safeguarding lives and protecting property across Abu Dhabi’s expanding road network.
