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Fine alert: UAE police issue fresh warning to pedestrians, drivers

Abu Dhabi - The police called on motorists to drive with caution and follow the traffic rules.

The Abu Dhabi Police have warned residents against the dangers of jaywalking and reminded them to abide by traffic laws.

In a fresh warning under the traffic safety campaign "Safety Path", the police urged pedestrians to cross roads only through designated areas and to follow the traffic lights at intersections.

““Random crossing of roads is among the main causes of run-over accidents. Pedestrians should use the designated crossing points properly, be vigilant and obey any signals at controlled crossings,” said police.

The force noted that people crossing roads from non-designated spots were putting their lives in danger.

According to the UAE traffic law, pedestrians who flout traffic signals and cross the road at undesignated areas face fines of Dh400.

Traffic authorities also warned pedestrians against using mobile phones while crossing roads to avoid accidents.

According to the police, pedestrians chatting or talking on their mobile phones while walking or crossing the roads pose a danger to themselves and other road users, because their attention is taken by what they are doing and forget about the traffic around them.

Motorists have also been told to be tolerant and give way to pedestrians when safe to do so at uncontrolled crossings and near schools and educational institutions.

Not giving way to pedestrians brings a Dh500 fine and six black points.

In 2019, the Abu Dhabi Police introduced smart radars that could detect jaywalkers and drivers who don't stop at pedestrian crossing points.

The smart radar system 'Hather' (Be Careful) controls violations committed by jaywalkers and drivers so as to reduce the number of pedestrian run-overs in Abu Dhabi.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com