Are you currently trapped in a frustrating traffic jam, desperately seeking an escape route? In such trying circumstances, it is crucial to exercise caution and refrain from abruptly changing lanes, engaging in disruptive behavior, or succumbing to the temptation of using your mobile phone. This invaluable advice was imparted by the esteemed Abu Dhabi Police on Wednesday, November 8.
Through a captivating video disseminated across their various social media platforms, the Abu Dhabi police fervently implored motorists to steer clear of these detrimental blunders when ensnared in a traffic jam.
1. Stick to your lane and avoid sudden lane change
How often do you witness a driver swiftly changing lanes in an attempt to catch up with a slightly faster-moving vehicle?
According to Article 86 of Ministerial Resolution No. (178) For 2017, as stated in the UAE’s Federal Traffic Law, the penalty for abruptly changing lanes is a fine of Dh1,000 and four black points. It is crucial to be aware of other fines related to lane discipline as well. Last year, Abu Dhabi Police emphasized the importance of maintaining lane discipline and highlighted two types of fines that individuals may face if they fail to adhere to traffic regulations.
A fine of Dh400 is imposed on drivers who fail to stay within their designated traffic lane, do not yield to vehicles approaching from behind, or neglect to give way to vehicles approaching from the left with the intention of overtaking.
In cases where a driver attempts to overtake from the right, a fine of Dh600 is imposed. This violation also results in six black points being added to the driver’s license. When driving in the UAE and desiring to overtake a slower vehicle ahead, it is crucial to always use the left lane for overtaking purposes.
2. Do not overtake from the hard shoulder
Another crucial aspect of overtaking is to strictly avoid using the hard shoulder for this purpose. This valuable advice was emphasized in Abu Dhabi’s educational video, serving as the second reminder. Motorists who disregard this rule will be subject to a Dh1,000 fine, in accordance with the Federal Traffic Law.
In August 2023, Abu Dhabi Police issued a timely reminder to all motorists, highlighting the exclusive purpose of the road shoulder for emergencies and emergency vehicles. This designated space ensures swift access for ambulances, police, and traffic management vehicles to accident scenes, ultimately playing a pivotal role in rescuing and safeguarding the lives of victims.
3. Drive at a constant speed and keep a proper distance between the vehicles
In October 2023, Abu Dhabi Police made a significant revelation regarding the leading causes of traffic accidents. It was found that failure to maintain a safe distance between vehicles played a major role in these incidents.
According to a statement issued by Abu Dhabi Police, drivers who cause accidents due to inadequate spacing between vehicles are subject to the provisions of Abu Dhabi’s Traffic Law No. 5 of 2020. This entails the immediate seizure of the offending vehicle and a subsequent fee of Dh5,000 to release it. The vehicle remains impounded until the fee is settled, and this must be done within a maximum period of three months.
Failure to settle the penalty within the stipulated time frame will result in the vehicle being referred for sale at a public auction. Additionally, the driver will face a fine of Dh400 and receive four black points on their traffic record, as stated by Abu Dhabi Police.
To ensure a safe distance, it is crucial to adhere to the ‘three-second rule’. This rule dictates that the car in front of you should have passed a designated roadside point, such as a lamp post, at least three seconds before your own vehicle reaches the same mark. Therefore, the appropriate safe distance between vehicles depends on the speed at which both vehicles are traveling.
4. Avoid using your phone
Are you tempted to glance at your navigation app or send a quick message while driving? Think again. A recent survey conducted by Abu Dhabi Police reveals that a staggering 80 percent of road fatalities and severe injuries are attributed to drivers using their phones. This alarming statistic, gathered in 2022, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by distracted driving.
To combat this issue, the Federal Traffic Law has implemented strict penalties for motorists caught using handheld devices while operating a vehicle. Offenders face a hefty Dh800 fine and accumulate four black points on their driving record. Additionally, any form of distraction behind the wheel can result in similar consequences.
It is crucial to prioritize road safety and remain fully focused while driving. Engaging with your phone or any other distractions can have devastating consequences for both yourself and others on the road. Let us all make a conscious effort to abide by the law and ensure a safer driving experience for everyone.
5. Do not use the horn in a way that is disturbing or annoying to others
In 2019, Abu Dhabi Police issued a crucial advisory urging drivers to exercise restraint when it comes to excessive use of car horns, particularly in the vicinity of hospitals and schools. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of refraining from deploying horns as a means to intimidate fellow drivers. Such behavior not only causes confusion among motorists but also poses a significant risk of traffic accidents.
How to pay Abu Dhabi traffic fines online?
TAMM is the official online portal and app for local government services in Abu Dhabi. In order to access this platform, it is necessary to have a UAE Pass account.
To begin, download the ‘TAMM’ app from either the iOS App Store or Google Play Store. Once installed, open the app and navigate to the homepage. Tap on the ‘Payments’ option and select ‘Traffic Fines Payment’.
At this point, you will be prompted to sign in using your UAE Pass credentials. Once successfully signed in, you will be able to view all fines associated with your vehicle. No additional information is required as your UAE Pass is already linked to your car registration details.
After reviewing the fines, you will have the option to select and pay them. By choosing a fine, you will be directed to an online payment channel where you must enter your debit or credit card information.
Upon completion of the payment process, you will receive a digital receipt and a notification confirming the successful transaction.
By following these steps, you can conveniently manage and settle your traffic fines through the TAMM app.
Also Read: Traffic fines in the UAE: How to convert them to monthly payments
