Dubai: Dubai Police have issued a critical warning to drivers about the dangers of stopping in the middle of the road due to vehicle breakdowns, running out of fuel, or tire issues. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that vehicles are in good working condition before setting out.

The police stated that drivers who stop in the middle of the road without justification could face a AED 1,000 fine, 6 traffic points, and a AED 500 fine for obstructing traffic under Article 98.

Brigadier Jumaa Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic, highlighted that stopping in the middle of the road is one of the most dangerous violations, often leading to serious accidents that can result in fatalities and severe injuries. He emphasized the need to contact the police if a vehicle breaks down and cannot be moved, so necessary actions can be taken, such as securing the disabled vehicle with police patrols and implementing safety measures to protect passengers and other road users.

This warning came after an accident occurred last Wednesday morning, where a person was injured in a collision between a motorcycle and a truck on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, just after the Hessa Bridge, heading toward Sharjah. The truck unexpectedly stopped in the middle of the road due to a mechanical failure, posing a significant hazard to other road users. Consequently, the motorcycle collided with the truck from behind, resulting in severe injuries to the rider, who was later taken to the hospital for treatment.

Brig. Jumaa bin Suwaidan stated that experts from the Traffic Accidents Section were promptly dispatched to the scene to investigate and collect evidence to determine the cause of the accident. “Meanwhile, traffic patrols managed the flow of vehicles and secured the accident site, ensuring that rescue teams could reach the scene swiftly. Additionally, response teams worked to remove and transport the damaged truck, restoring normal traffic conditions as quickly as possible,” he continued.

The Director of the General Department of Traffic emphasized that if a vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident and cannot be moved off the road, drivers should take essential precautions to prevent further incidents. “This includes activating warning signals and prioritizing the safety of themselves and any passengers. If possible, drivers should place a warning triangle behind the vehicle at a safe distance to alert approaching motorists. Afterward, they should exit the vehicle completely and move to a safe area off the road before contacting the police,” he noted.