- Traffic rule violators in UAE to now pay heavy fines
- Vehicle impoundment possible in some cases
Many UAE motorists are under the impression that radars can only catch over-speeding vehicles. However, they don’t know that these devices are supported by the latest technologies that can also detect many other offences, including failure to wear seat-belts. Those caught flouting the rules are punished with heavy fines and imprisonment for months. Some vehicles even end up in public auctions. Here is a list of the 8 most common traffic violations that can be fined for in the UAE:
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1. Speeding
This is a major traffic violation that the radar can detect. Radars have been installed in all emirates, except Abu Dhabi, for speeds 20 kmph over the prescribed speed limit. This means that if a motorist travels at a speed of 110 kmph or more, on a 100 kmph road, the radar will register a speed violation. Dh300 to Dh3000 fines have been set depending on how fast the motorist exceeds the speed limit. According to the UAE’s traffic law, those who exceed the speed limit by 80 kmph will be hit with 23 black points and their car will be confiscated for 60 days.
2. Vehicles with expired registration
According to federal traffic rules, driving a vehicle with an expired registration can result in a fine of Dh500 and four black points. If the registration has expired for more than three months, the car will be impounded for seven days.
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3. Noisy vehicles
Some motorists illegally modify their vehicles to increase speed. Such vehicles emit panic-causing noises to scare. Sharjah Police has installed radars powered by solar technology to detect loud vehicles and send alerts to the police about loud vehicles. If more than one vehicle makes noise on the same road (a sign of racing). A fine of Dh2,000 is issued if a vehicle is detected emitting sound over 95 decibels. According to federal traffic law, 12 black points are given for driving loud vehicles.
4. Using phone while driving
Abu Dhabi Police has an automated system to detect motorists who use their mobile phones while driving. The system takes high-resolution pictures through cameras operated by artificial intelligence. Using the phone while driving is fined 800 dirhams and 4 black points.
5. Seat belt violations
Not wearing a seatbelt while driving attracts a fine of Dh400 and 4 black points. It’s important to mention here that while seatbelts might seem to be a basic feature, they go a long way in keeping you protected. Not only do they secure you in place during a collision, but even ensure you don’t slide around while cornering fast. Also, the airbags of a vehicle won’t deploy unless the seatbelt is worn.
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6. Tailgating
Some radars in the UAE detect and penalise tailgating. Umm Al Quwain Police activated radars last year to detect traffic law violators. Abu Dhabi Police has also implemented such smart systems some time back. Leaving a safe distance from the vehicle in front will result in a Dh400 fine and 4 black points.
7. Jumping the red light
Radars have been installed at signalised junctions to detect red light violators and can also detect cars that take wrong turns or make U-turns from prohibited areas. Crossing a red light will result in a fine of Dh1,000 and confiscation of the vehicle for 30 days along with 12 black points.
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8. Unauthorised road racing
The well paved roads in UAE are definitely a treat for driving enthusiasts. However, one is supposed to enjoy them while adhering to all the traffic rules. Still, in some cases, some people go overboard and even end up ‘street racing’ on public roads. Now, though, participating in unauthorised road racing can result in a fine of Dh50,000.
