Dubai, January 8, 2024Â – To curb the rising trend of reckless driving in the city, Dubai Police have intensified their efforts, recently seizing an SUV and a quad bike for performing stunts at a family camping zone in Al Ruwayyah.Â
This comes on the heels of five vehicles being impounded last week, all driven by young motorists engaged in dangerous stunts that pose a nuisance and jeopardize road users’ safety.
Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, the director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, emphasized that reckless driving and loud vehicles are irritants and real threats to lives on the road.Â
The confiscated vehicles, including the SUV and quad bike, will only be released upon payment of an impoundment fee, which could go as high as Dh50,000.
Last year, Dubai Police introduced more stringent fines for traffic offences, with reckless driving and running red lights ranking among the most serious.Â
The impoundment fee of Dh50,000 is a stern reminder to motorists about the consequences of endangering lives through irresponsible driving. For those participating in illegal road races, the penalty skyrockets to Dh100,000.
According to Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, assistant commander-in-chief for operations at Dubai Police, the amendments to the traffic law are a crucial step in promoting road safety and protecting lives and property.Â
These legal changes are part of a broader initiative to curb the rising tide of reckless drivers on Dubai’s roads.
In an interview with Khaleej Times, some young motorists admitted that the quest for cheap thrills, an adrenaline rush, and social media attention were the driving forces behind their involvement in dangerous driving practices.Â
One driver in his early 20s revealed that the sensation of speeding gave him an adrenaline rush, akin to being a character in his favourite high-speed movie.
Dubai Police’s crackdown on reckless driving aligns with their commitment to creating a safer road environment for all residents and visitors.Â
The authorities say that such behaviour will not be tolerated, and those who engage in dangerous driving will face severe consequences.
A road safety expert weighed in on the matter, urging friends and peers of young drivers to take responsibility and discourage risky driving.Â
Encouraging safe driving practices, rather than cheering on dangerous stunts, is crucial for creating a culture of responsibility on the roads.Â
The expert emphasized that true friends should prioritize the safety of their peers over the temporary excitement that reckless driving may provide.
As Dubai Police continue to make the city’s roads safer, impounding vehicles involved in dangerous activities is a deterrent.Â
The hefty fines are a financial burden for those who put themselves and others at risk, underlining the gravity of the consequences of irresponsible driving.
In conclusion, Dubai Police’s proactive measures against reckless driving strongly message to the community: road safety is non-negotiable.Â
As the city takes steps to preserve lives and properties, residents are urged to prioritize responsible driving, ensuring that the roads are safe for everyone.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members