Distracted driver crashes into shop in Umm Al Quwain

Umm Al Quwain - Distracted driving is a traffic violation punishable by a fine of Dh800 and four black points.

A vehicle driven by a young Emirati woman on Sunday rammed into the glass wall of a shop in Umm Al Quwain. Initial investigations suggest that she was using her phone while driving.
"The driver lost control of the steering wheel and she accidentally stepped on the gas pedal instead of the brake, so the vehicle crashed into the electronics shop, breaking its glass storefront," police sources said.
The motorist, who is on her 20s, did not sustain any injuries, they added.
While no one was hurt in the accident, authorities urged drivers to always keep their eyes on the road.
"All drivers must remain focused and never get distracted while driving, as this may lead to major accidents and fatal injuries," they said.
Records show that last year, around 60 people were killed in UAE road accidents caused by distracted driving.
Anything that takes a motorist's attention away from safe driving is considered a distraction, authorities said. This includes using phones behind the wheel; fiddling with the car stereo or navigation systems; eating; drinking; and putting on makeup, among others.
Distracted driving is a traffic violation punishable by a fine of Dh800 and four black points.
The UAQ Police have reported several similar accidents of vehicles crashing into shops either due to a distraction or a mistake in shifting gears.
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• Umm Al Quwain