Dh400 fine, four black points for breaking this traffic rule in UAE

Drivers not sticking to rules causes most accidents on roads.

Abu Dhabi Police revealed that 13 per cent of all road accidents in the first quarter of this year were caused by not leaving a safe distance between vehicles. 
"The lack of commitment by some drivers to leave enough distance between vehicles has resulted in 13 per cent of the traffic accidents, serious injuries and even death," said the Directorate of the Traffic and Patrols Department at Abu Dhabi Police Central Operations on Tuesday. 
Lieutenant Colonel Dr Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Deputy Director of the external roads traffic department at Abu Dhabi Police, urged motorists to stick to the traffic laws and leave safe distance between vehicles. "It will allow the motorists to safely control their vehicles and to stop at the right time in case the vehicle in front stops suddenly."  
He pointed out that drivers not sticking to the vehicle distance rule will be slapped with a Dh400 fine and four black points.
Lieutenant Colonel Al Suwaidi also warned motorists who tailgate drivers and approach them at close distance, flashing their lights until the vehicle in front switches lanes, which he says causes severe danger on roads. 
"Such harassment leads to the lack of concentration of the vehicle driver in the front, especially for new drivers and those with little driving experience."
"This could lead to accidents in the rear of the vehicle, which could cause injuries to passengers and children sitting in the vehicle that is being harassed."
The Deputy Director thus urged motorists, especially young drivers, to respect the road rules and other motorists on the roads. 
"Paying attention and leaving enough distance behind other vehicles, can help protect themselves from traffic accidents, which results in massive injury and loss of life."
In January, Abu Dhabi Police held a press conference where they revealed the top violations that immensely contributed to the 4.6 million fines last year, which included tailgating.
"The top causes of serious road accidents were sudden manoeuvres, tailgating, not giving other road users and pedestrians enough space, breaking lane discipline, speeding and lack of attention behind the wheel," said the Traffic and Patrol Directorate, Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Director of Abu Dhabi Police's Central Operations Sector. 
Police said that although tailgating dropped by just 9 per cent, raising awareness is key to educating young drivers about the dangers of negligence while driving. 
Abu Dhabi Police have boosted their traffic safety campaigns and awareness initiatives, particularly on their social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, which heavily targets young drivers. 
On Monday, the authorities posted a real-life video of a deadly road accident in Abu Dhabi, which was caused by a four-wheel vehicle driver who passed a red light and collided with another four-wheel vehicle. 
The post, which has so far received more than 20,000 views and nearly 400 responses, comes as part of Abu Dhabi Police's 'Share Your Comment' initiative, where police have encouraged members of the community to give their feedback, suggestions and concerns about traffic conditions in the UAE Capital. 
"It is important for the Abu Dhabi Police to work closely with the public to enhance the safety and security, which is our main goal," Colonel Mohamed Ali Al Muhairi, director of the Security Media Department told Khaleej Times.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com