Distracted driving is one of the main reasons for dangerous road accidents in the UAE. According to a recent report issued by Abu Dhabi police, 27,000 fines were issued for distracted driving during the first six months of 2021. Distracted driving refers to the act of driving while engaging in other activities such as talking on cell phone, sending a text message, using a navigation system etc. Such activities take the attention of the driver away from the road and can cause fatal road accidents. These distractions can compromise the safety of the driver, passenger, pedestrians and other commuters.
Many drivers believe they can engage in different activities while driving in heavy traffic. However, they must understand that even a minor lapse in concentration may result in a potentially fatal accident. Hence, distracted driving must be prevented at all costs as it can prove to have dangerous consequences.
Penalties for Distracted Driving in the UAE
Motorists can face serious penalties if they indulge in distracted driving. During the first six months of 2021, more than 27,000 fines have been issued against distracted drivers in Abu Dhabi. The penalties for distracted driving include a hefty fine of AED 800 and four black points issued against the license of the driver. Distracted driving violations that can incur these penalties include:
- Checking messages
- Taking phone calls
- Talking to passengers
Distracted driving can result in delayed judgement, which can cause the driver to commit other dangerous violations such as sudden swerving, violating speed limits and jumping the red signal.
According to Abu Dhabi Police’s Traffic Directorate, statistics and analytical studies have shown that distracted driving is one of the most dangerous offenses as it can cause critical injuries and may even cost lives. The department continued to emphasize on the dangers of distracted driving by stating that drivers must always maintain focus while driving and be watchful of the road ahead to avoid losing control of the vehicle.
How to Avoid Distracted Driving?
It is important to adopt a careful and defensive approach to avoid the risks associated with distracted driving. Drivers must realise that the safety of other passengers and commuters will be at risk if they do not maintain 100% attention while driving. Being aware of the penalties can also help motorists avoid traffic violations. The traffic penalties act as a deterrent against the reckless driving behavior of motorists.
Some other tips that the drivers can follow to avoid distracted driving include, staying alert and keeping an eye on other reckless drivers, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, using indicators while changing lanes and avoiding driving near heavy trucks and other commercial vehicles.
Following road safety protocols, along with an attentive driving approach can help drivers avoid dangerous road accidents caused by distracted driving.
Also read: Understanding the Dangers of Distracted Driving in the UAE
State-of-the Art Car Technologies Can Help Prevent the Dangers of Distracted Driving
Modern cars are equipped with cutting edge safety and driver-assistance features that can reduce the risk of unintentional distracted driving. However, it must be noted that these features are not a substitute for a driver’s full attention, but they can assist the driver in staying alert while driving. Given below are some of the most advanced driver-assistance features that can help prevent distracted driving.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Lane Departure Warnings
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Driver Attention Assist
- Forward Collision Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Head-up Display
All of the above-mentioned technologies are designed to reduce driver distraction and help in creating a safer driving experience. Previous generation models are not equipped with these advanced safety features and only come with basic safety features.
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