Dubai Police Impose 30-Day Vehicle Impound for Phone Use While Driving

Dubai Police have started taking strict action against distracted driving across the UAE after recording six related deaths in eight months. To ensure your safety, Dubai Police are actively investing in more intelligent and safer traffic solutions.

The newly installed AI-powered cameras can detect mobile phone usage or any other distraction, even through heavily tinted windows. The cameras are so bright they can detect you lowering your mobile phone after seeing the camera. 

Fines and Penalties Unveiled

More than three such cases were reported last week, including a woman in a Black Land Rover Defender listening to calls and holding both of her phones with no hands on the steering wheel. Another offense was reported when someone in a white Range Rover was reading a newspaper, completely neglecting the road ahead. 

This type of behavior can be hazardous for yourself and other people on the road. Thus, Dubai Police have imposed fines ranging from AED 400 to AED 1000. In addition to these specified fines, chances are your vehicle will be impounded for more or less 30 days.

Impoundment Period Specifics

Listed below are the penalties announced by the Dubai Police in case of traffic violations:

• – 30 days of vehicle impounding for sudden changes in car direction that endanger lives, property, or traffic safety.

• – 30 days impounding for failing to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.

• – 14 days of impounding for entering the roadway without checking for oncoming traffic.

• – 30 days impounding for being distracted while driving by using a phone or other electronic devices.

• – 14 days impounding for reversing the vehicle in a way that poses a risk to lives, property, or traffic safety.

• – 14 days of vehicle impounding for not following mandatory lane discipline.

• – 14 days impounding for stopping in the middle of the road without a valid reason.

• – 14 days impounding for unsafe overtaking.

• – 14 days are impounding for the vehicle lacking required safety features.

• – 30 days impounding for heavy vehicles that do not follow mandatory lane rules.

• – 14 days of impounding for parking on the hard shoulder in non-emergency situations or for passing other vehicles on the hard shoulder.

• – 14 days impounding for driving without a license plate or with only one plate.

• – 14 days impounding for driving in a manner that blocks traffic.

• – 14 days impounding for changing the vehicle’s color without authorization.

If you value your time and funds, learning these rules will be in your best interest. 

Significant Risks to Innocent Lives

Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazroui, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, has emphasized public safety by saying, “Using a phone while behind the wheel not only diverts a driver’s attention but also significantly increases the likelihood of accidents. A momentary lapse in concentration while checking social media or texting can have devastating consequences.” 

Additionally, he also explained the reason for this sudden increase in strictness as distractions caused by mobile phone use during driving have resulted in 99 accidents over the last eight months, leading to the tragic deaths of six people and injuring 58 others. Of these injuries, five were considered severe, 32 were labeled as moderate, and 21 were categorized as minor.