Dubai’s top traffic official has sent out a stringent warning to drivers, cautioning them against sitting behind the wheel while they are under the influence of drugs.
Suspects who are caught driving their vehicles under the influence of drugs or mind-altering substances could face stern punishments and deportation as well, said Senior Chief Traffic Prosecutor Salah Bu Farousha, Head of Dubai Traffic Public Prosecution.
“Drivers should be law-abiding and more attentive otherwise they could face stringent action… we won’t stop any efforts to prosecute defendants involved in cases of driving under the influence of drugs. According to article 63 of the Traffic Law, a suspect who drives a car under the influence of drugs, could face up to three years in jail and/or a minimum fine of Dh20,000. Non-Emirati suspects could also be deported,” said Bu Farousha on Wednesday.
His warning came in light of three judgements that were handed against three defendants, who were convicted of driving their cars under the influence of drugs and causing three accidents.
The Dubai Traffic Misdemeanour Court sentenced a 19-year-old Arab man to three months in jail followed by deportation for driving under the influence of drugs. The defendant lost control of his steering and suddenly veered to the opposite lane and rammed into another vehicle. The other car’s driver was injured and admitted to hospital, said Bu Farousha.
Presiding Judge Mohammad Al Batal also jailed a 24-year-old Emirati driver for one year and fined him Dh20,000 for driving under the influence of drugs and causing an accident in Al Muhaisnah .
The court also suspended his licence for one year.
Meanwhile, a 34-year-old Emirati was also jailed for one year and fined Dh20,000 for being involved in a similar case. The accused will also have his driving licence revoked for one year as soon as he completes his jail term.
In June, the 34-year-old rammed a pavement and hit a lamp post while he drove his car under the influence of drugs in Al Rabat Street.
