MIDDLEEASTTYCOON NEWS DESK: Dubai Police have launched a crackdown on distracted driving, introducing strict regulations that allow for the impounding of vehicles for up to 30 days if drivers are caught using mobile phones while driving. This new decree, effective immediately, also includes offenses such as sudden swerving, tailgating, and poor lane discipline, applying exclusively to Dubai’s roads.
Previously, motorists using mobile phones faced a fine of Dh800 and accrued four traffic points. However, the updated measures aim to enhance road safety amid alarming statistics. In the first eight months of 2023, six fatalities were attributed to distracted driving involving mobile phone use, alongside 35,527 recorded offenses that resulted in 50 injuries. Dubai Police emphasize that these measures are crucial for reducing accidents and ensuring safer roads for all.
THE NEW RULES
- Sudden swerving in a way causes danger to individuals or properties – vehicle impounded for 30 days
- Not leaving safe distance between vehicles – 30 days
- Distracted while driving due to using a phone or other devices – 30 days
- Entering a road without making sure it is empty – 14 days
- Reversing in a way causing danger for individuals and properties – 14 days
- Failure to adhere to mandatory lane discipline – 14 days
- Stopping in the middle of the road without reason – 14 days
- Dangerous overtaking – 14 days
- The vehicle is unsafe to drive – 14 days
- Heavy vehicle failing to adhere to mandatory lane discipline – 14 days
- Stopping the vehicle on the hard shoulder in non-emergency situations, or overtaking other vehicles using the hard shoulder – 14 days
- Driving a vehicle without a number plate – 14 days
- Driving a vehicle in a way that obstructs traffic – 14 days
- Changing the colour of the vehicle without permission – 14 days
