UAE Traffic Law Amendments: Stricter Penalties for Road SafetyPosted by Dr. Hassan Elhais on September 5th, 2023 IntroductionThe UAE has recently taken a significant step towards improving road safety by implementing amendments to its traffic laws. Effective July 6, 2023, these changes impose penalties for various road safety violations. These amendments reflect a broader commitment by the authorities to enhance road safety, deter reckless driving, and protect lives and property. Of special importance is the impact of these changes in Dubai, where motorists need to be well aware of these updates to avoid substantial fines, license point accumulations, and vehicle impoundment. To aid compliance, the police have released a comprehensive list of the newly introduced fines and penalties for impounded vehicles. This article will focus on the key changes to the traffic laws. Earlier this year, the emirate of Dubai introduced changes to the traffic law through Decree No. 30 of 2023. This decree establishes the framework for penalties related to traffic violations and the impoundment of vehicles. When a Car Can Be ImpoundedThe new amendments introduce the conditions under which a vehicle can be impounded by the police. Articles 2 and 3 of the decree outline the instances when a car can be seized, and Articles 4 and 5 specify the penalties imposed for various listed violations. New Fines and PenaltiesThe revised traffic laws in the UAE introduced fines and penalties, against breach road safety regulations. Some of the most noteworthy changes include fines for running red lights and reckless driving. Let's delve into some of the key amendments and the associated penalties:
Impoundment of Vehicles and Additional MeasuresA critical aspect of the updated traffic laws is the impoundment of vehicles for severe violations. For these violations, owners must meet specific conditions to have their impounded vehicles released, including paying associated fines, rectifying the violation, and adhering to any additional conditions set by the Dubai Police. Repeat Offenders and DeportationRepeat offenders face escalated penalties. If a vehicle is impounded again within a year for the same offence, the impoundment period doubles, not exceeding 90 days. The release amount also doubles, capped at Dh200,000. Moreover, the law dictates that non-citizen drivers of heavy vehicles caught running red lights will be administratively deported from the UAE. Impact and AwarenessThe core goal of these amendments is to foster a sense of responsibility and awareness among UAE motorists. To ensure the effective implementation of these regulations, Dubai Police has initiated an awareness campaign. This campaign educates the public about the changes and potential consequences of reckless driving, emphasizing the importance of abiding by traffic laws. ConclusionStaying informed about traffic regulations and prioritizing safety is vital every time one takes to the road. By focusing on road safety, these changes contribute to a safer and more responsible driving environment. Article by: Dr. Hassan Elhais, a legal consultant in Dubai, specializing in the drafting of all statements of claim, memos, and consultation on litigation of all manner. Like it? Share it!More by this author |