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UAE police warn of penalties up to Dh2,000 for not following safety tips during rainy weather

placestovisit.ae

Apr 12, 2024 • 4 min read

Safety should always be a top priority for motorists. With unpredictable weather conditions and challenging road situations, it is crucial for drivers to adhere to important safety tips to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road. Here are some key safety tips that every driver should keep in mind before hitting the road:

Check the tyres of your vehicle: Before embarking on your journey, it is essential to check the condition of your tyres. Make sure they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. This will ensure that your vehicle has good traction and stability on the road.
Ensure your windshield wipers are working: Clear visibility is crucial for safe driving, especially during rainy or foggy conditions. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and functioning properly to keep your windshield clear of rain or debris.
Reduce speed while crossing puddles: Driving through puddles can be risky as it can cause hydroplaning or loss of control. Reduce your speed when crossing puddles to maintain traction and prevent accidents.
Use headlights during the day: Using headlights during the day can make your vehicle more visible to other motorists, especially in low-light conditions. This can help prevent accidents and improve overall road safety.
Avoid driving with hazard lights on: Using hazard lights while driving can be confusing to other drivers and may even be illegal in some regions. Only use hazard lights when your vehicle is stationary or in case of an emergency.
Keep a safe distance between vehicles: Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for safe driving. It gives you more time to react to sudden stops or road obstacles and can prevent rear-end collisions.
Adhere to speed limit signs: Speeding is a major cause of accidents on the road. Adhere to speed limit signs and keep an eye on information display boards for any updates on road conditions or speed limits.
Avoid distractions on the road: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in other activities that may take your focus away from the road.
Avoid driving in valleys: Valleys can be prone to flooding during heavy rains, making them dangerous areas for driving. Avoid driving in valleys during adverse weather conditions to prevent getting stuck or swept away by floodwaters.

In addition to these safety tips, it is important for motorists to be aware of weather-related traffic violations and fines. Here is a list of 10 weather-related traffic violations and fines that every driver should be aware of:

Taking photos or videos of rain or fog while driving: Dh800 fine, four black points
Driving dangerously: Dh2,000 fine, 23 black points and 60-day confiscation
Driving with hazard lights on: Dh500 fine, four black points
Driving in fog without lights: Dh500 fine, four black points
Disregarding official instructions to not drive in the fog: Dh500 fine, four black points
Failure to follow instructions by a policeman: Dh400 fine, four black points
Fleeing when a policeman asks a motorist to stop: Dh800 fine, 12 black points
Gathering near valleys, flooded areas and dams during rainy weather: Dh1,000 fine, six black points
Entering flooded valleys regardless of danger level: Dh2,000 fine, 23 black points, 60-day confiscation
Obstructing authorities during emergencies: Dh1,000 fine, four black points, 60-day confiscation

By adhering to these important safety tips and being aware of weather-related traffic violations and fines, motorists can ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. Remember, safe driving is responsible driving. Stay safe, be mindful of road conditions, and always prioritize safety while behind the wheel.