Dubai: Dubai Police have cautioned motorists against stopping on the road shoulder without necessity, urging drivers to move their vehicles to the nearest safe parking area outside the roadway in case of a breakdown or emergency. Authorities stressed that unjustified stopping on the road shoulder is a dangerous traffic violation that may lead to serious accidents and disrupt traffic flow.

The warning follows a fatal run-over incident on Sheikh Zayed Road before the Al Yalayis Bridge heading towards Abu Dhabi, where a person lost his life after a vehicle stopped unsafely on the left road shoulder.

Brigadier Juma bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic, explained that the incident occurred after two vehicles were involved in a collision.  “Both drivers stopped their vehicles on the left road shoulder next to the first fast lane, an area where stopping is prohibited except in emergency situations due to the risks involved,” he said.

He said the driver of one of the vehicles exited his car to inspect the damage caused by the collision. “At that moment, another vehicle approaching from behind encountered him on the roadway. Due to the vehicle’s speed and the short distance, the driver was unable to avoid him, resulting in the victim being run over and dying at the scene,” bin Suwaidan added.

Brigadier Bin Suwaidan noted that excessive speed and failure to maintain a safe following distance contributed to the severity of the incident. He urged motorists to adhere to speed limits, remain attentive to road conditions, and anticipate unexpected situations on highways. He also emphasised that Dubai Police will continue enforcing strict penalties against dangerous traffic behaviours that endanger lives and property.

He further explained that stopping on the road shoulder is considered a serious traffic violation that can lead to severe accidents causing injuries and fatalities. “The road shoulder is designated strictly for emergency situations such as sudden vehicle breakdowns or medical emergencies and must not be used for any other purpose,” he explained.

Brigadier Bin Suwaidan highlighted the importance of raising driver awareness about avoiding such behaviour except in exceptional circumstances. He advised motorists to move their vehicles to the safe right side of the road when possible and avoid stopping in dangerous locations on highways.