According to UAE traffic laws, drivers may be subject to fines, and points on their licences, depending on the seriousness of the traffic offence. Minor penalties apply to certain traffic infractions, but courts may impose severe fines or even prison time for drivers who commit hazardous infractions. Let’s examine several driving infractions that may put you in prison and are quite hazardous.
1. Alcohol and Drugs While Driving
Driving while intoxicated may lead to impaired driving, resulting in deadly traffic collisions. According to the court’s ruling, the defendant will have to pay a fine of AED 20,000 or go to prison for this offence. In addition, offenders will get 60 days of vehicle impoundment for this offence and 23 black points added to their driving record.
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2. Taking a Turn on the Hard Shoulder
In the UAE, careless driving has become a significant traffic issue, and one of the riskiest reckless driving behaviours is passing on a hard shoulder. The part of the road identified as the “hard shoulder” is reserved for emergency vehicles. Overtaking on a hard shoulder may result in deadly crashes involving several cars, and motorists who do so may risk prison time. For this offence, drivers will also be subject to a 1,000 AED traffic fine and 6 licence suspensions.
3. Tailgating
If drivers in the UAE don’t allow enough space between their cars and those in front of them, they risk going to prison. One of the most common driving infractions in the United Arab Emirates, tailgating has resulted in several deadly car accidents. According to the court’s ruling, tailgating is punishable by up to a year in prison, a 400 AED fine, and four black points against the offender’s licence.
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4. Unexpected Lane Swerving
Another risky behaviour that increases the risk of fatal traffic accidents is abrupt lane switching. You need to be aware that lane discipline infractions may result in the UAE’s prison time. Four points on the licence and a fine of AED 1,000 are additional penalties for this traffic infraction.
5. Deadly Injuries
Penalties for major accident-related injuries are more severe. The courts will determine the length of the jail sentence for this offence, but the offenders will also be assessed 23 black points and have their cars impounded for 30 days.
6. Inflicting the deaths of others
For causing the death(s) of other commuters on the road, you can face prison time. In addition, the offenders face 23 black points and a 60-day car impoundment.
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7. After causing an accident that resulted in injuries, failing to stop
If a driver causes an accident that results in injuries on the road but does not stop, they may be sentenced to prison time. Other punishments drivers will have to endure for this offence include an AED 500 fine, 8 black points, and 7 days with their car impounded.
8. Seat belt violations
All passengers and drivers must wear seatbelts. The penalty for not doing so is Dh400. Children under four not buckled into car seats are subject to the same penalties.
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