Abu Dhabi, UAE – Despite repeated warnings from authorities, some motorists continue to use the hard shoulder of the road to bypass traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
This illegal practice not only violates traffic regulations but also endangers the lives of both the offending drivers and others on the road.
On Sunday, the Abu Dhabi Police issued a stern reminder to drivers, emphasizing that the hard shoulder should only be used in emergency situations. In a recently released video clip, the law enforcement agency highlighted the importance of keeping these lanes clear.
The hard shoulder, also known as the road shoulder, is a paved emergency lane or additional lane located on the extreme right side of roads and highways, clearly marked with bold yellow lines.
The police stressed that these lanes are designated for emergency vehicles such as police cars, ambulances, and civil defense vehicles.
These services rely on the hard shoulder to reach accident sites quickly, transport the injured to hospitals, and perform other critical emergency functions.
“The misuse of the hard shoulder can cause significant delays in the arrival of emergency assistance,” the Abu Dhabi Police stated. “This not only hinders the efficiency of emergency response teams but also jeopardizes the lives and safety of those involved in accidents.”
Despite these clear regulations, some motorists still use the hard shoulder to get ahead during traffic jams or to take a break.
Others park on the shoulder to make phone calls or rest, further compounding the problem. The police underscored that such actions are unacceptable and pose a serious risk to road safety.
According to Article 42 of the UAE Federal Traffic Law, motorists caught overtaking on the hard shoulder face a Dh1,000 fine and the addition of six black points to their driving record. These penalties are designed to deter drivers from violating this crucial safety rule.
In their video message, the Abu Dhabi Police urged drivers to use the hard shoulder solely for emergencies or as a safe parking spot in the event of a car breakdown. They warned that strict enforcement measures would be taken against those who flout these regulations.
The misuse of the hard shoulder not only affects the efficiency of emergency services but also creates potential hazards for all road users. By blocking the path of emergency vehicles, these drivers delay the response time to critical incidents, which can result in severe consequences.
The Abu Dhabi Police have been actively working to raise awareness about the proper use of the hard shoulder. Their ongoing campaigns aim to educate motorists about the dangers and legal repercussions of using these lanes inappropriately.
The police also conduct regular patrols and surveillance to catch offenders in the act and enforce the law strictly.
As traffic congestion continues to be a challenge in Abu Dhabi, the authorities are determined to ensure that the hard shoulder remains clear for its intended purpose. The safety of motorists and the efficiency of emergency services depend on adherence to this vital rule.
In conclusion, the Abu Dhabi Police’s latest reminder serves as a crucial warning to all motorists: the hard shoulder is not a shortcut or a resting place.
It is a lifeline for emergency services, and its misuse can have dire consequences. The police urge everyone to respect this regulation and contribute to safer roads for all.