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New patrol system to catch traffic violators in UAE; up to Dh1,000 fine

Motorists blocking ways for ambulances remains one of the main obstacles facing emergency services.

Published: Sun 16 Jun 2019, 4:00 PM

Updated: Mon 27 Feb 2023, 5:20 PM

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UAE has once again issued a warning against obstructing movement of emergency vehicles. Earlier this month, Ministry of Interior posted a statement on social media urging drivers to give way to emergency vehicles and official convoys. The failure to do so can result in a fine of Dh1,000 and 6 black points for the driver.

In an Instagram post on it official account, the authority announced a new campaign in order to curb this traffic violation - 'civil patrols' will be dispatched to catch motorists obstructing movement of emergency or official vehicles.

The campaign aims to further reiterate respect for traffic rules and reflect a civilised image for visitors.

The ministry added that motorists blocking ways for ambulances remains one of the main obstacles facing emergency services.

In 2017, Major Abdullah Al Qubaisi, head of the traffic control department at the Abu Dhabi Traffic and Patrols Directorate had announced the implementation of the Dh1,000 fine for drivers blocking ambulances and other emergency vehicles as part of the amendments made to the Federal Traffic Law, which came into effect on July 1, 2017.

"Sometimes cars are not giving way to emergency vehicles and ambulances and drivers struggle to get through the traffic jams to reach the accident scenes," said Al Qubaisi.

"Drivers failing to give way for emergency vehicles put people's lives in danger. Motorists should allow paramedics and rescue teams to do their work of saving lives by not blocking the emergency vehicles."

Police said a rushing ambulance means someone's life is in danger and a motorist can help save that life by giving way so that there is no delay in the treatment.

Abu Dhabi Police also stressed on the fact that giving way to emergency vehicles helps improve response time for accidents. Impeding the movement of emergency vehicles is a negative behaviour which can prevent or delay delivery of ambulance services to the injured in the right time which may cause complications. The advisory was disseminated among the police forces in the country.



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