Dubai: Sharjah Police have released a video of a driver overtaking dangerously on the hard shoulder during rush hour to remind UAE drivers of the importance of maintaining lane discipline. Such reckless behaviour not only violates traffic rules but also poses a serious danger to road users and emergency services personnel.
Sharjah Police reiterated that the hard shoulder is only for broken-down or damaged vehicles and emergency vehicles. Abusing the hard shoulder, such as overtaking, is a direct violation of Article 42 of the Federal Traffic Law and is punishable by a fine of Dh1,000 and six penalty points on your driving license.
Such misuse could prevent emergency vehicles from reaching the scene of an accident or breakdown, which could delay the provision of vital assistance. Authorities have also reminded drivers to keep a safe distance, especially in traffic jams, to avoid sudden braking and collisions.
According to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), drivers must comply with traffic signs, which are usually white or yellow. Failure to comply with these signs will be considered a traffic violation. Here is a quick overview of some of the most common traffic signs:
Stop line: Located at intersections with stop signs or traffic lights. You must come to a complete stop at the stop line and may only proceed if your lights are on and there is clear road ahead.
Yield Line: A dotted line that requires you to yield the right-of-way to any vehicle or pedestrian. If necessary, slow down and stop to avoid a collision.
Authorities are using advanced traffic monitoring systems and radars to detect violations across the UAE, including at major intersections in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Stay in your lane: On the highway, when traffic is light, stay in the far right lane. In heavy traffic, stay in the center lane and use the left lane only for passing. After passing a slower vehicle, return to the center or right lane.
Use your mirrors and keep your head straight: Before changing lanes, always look in your mirrors and keep your head straight to cover your blind spots. This is crucial when changing lanes, reversing or overtaking.
Following too closely behind another vehicle is one of the most dangerous driving habits. Dubai Police has repeatedly warned against following too closely behind vehicles and stressed the importance of maintaining a safe distance to reduce the risk of accidents.
Following too much creates stress for the driver of the vehicle in front, often resulting in sudden braking, sharp turns, or dangerous lane changes. This behavior increases the likelihood of an accident, especially on high-speed roads.
In inclement weather or at higher speeds, increase the interval to at least three to four seconds for added safety.
Post time: May-15-2025