Dubai Police have announced a new traffic regulation that allows for the impoundment of vehicles for up to 30 days for various driving offenses. Offenses such as using mobile phones while driving, tailgating, and sudden lane changes will lead to this penalty.
Key Offenses Leading to Vehicle Impoundment
- Mobile Phone Use: Distracted driving due to phone usage.
- Tailgating: Failing to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Sudden Deviation: Changing lanes dangerously.
Additional Penalties
Under the federal traffic law, fines range from Dh400 to Dh1,000, along with four black points for these violations. The 30-day vehicle impoundment serves as an additional penalty in Dubai.
Other Offenses with 14-Day Impoundment
The following actions will result in a 14-day vehicle impoundment:
- Entering a road without ensuring it is clear.
- Reversing dangerously.
- Lane indiscipline.
- Stopping in the middle of the road unnecessarily.
- Dangerous overtaking.
- Failing to meet safety conditions in the vehicle.
- Stopping on the shoulder of the road without an emergency.
Previous Measures and Statistics
This is not the first instance of stricter penalties for reckless driving in Dubai. Last year, authorities imposed a Dh50,000 fee for releasing vehicles seized due to serious offenses like reckless driving and running red lights. Notably, reckless driving caused 94 accidents in Dubai during the first half of 2024.
Public Awareness
A recent survey revealed that one in three motorists admitted to using their phones while driving. While 90% of drivers acknowledge that distracted driving is dangerous, only 81% claim they are always focused on the road. This indicates that many drivers still engage in risky behaviors despite understanding the dangers involved.
