UAE | Traffic and Transport
Bad weather requires vigilant driving, say police
Incorrect use of hazard lights is a common mistake.
- By Rayeesa AbsalStaff Reporter
- Published: 00:29 March 14, 2008
- Image Credit:
Abu Dhabi: Following the horrific accident on Tuesday morning, in which three people died and 347 were injured, police have warned motorists to exercise caution while driving, especially in bad weather.
They have urged motorists to be careful while on the roads during a bad weather alert.
"The most common mistake committed by people is the use of hazard lights while driving in fog. Several victims of Tuesday's accident also said they used hazard lights to caution other drivers, which is dangerous," said an official.
"The purpose of hazard lights is to inform other drivers that your car has stopped. So when a driver spots a car with hazard lights switched on, he might get the idea the car has stopped. This in itself could cause an accident," he said.
"Also, a driver cannot indicate whether he is moving to the left or right lane if he switches on his hazard lights," he said.
Use hazard lights only when you stop the vehicle completely, for example in case of an emergency, or when you pull over to the side of the road, he said.
Speed limit
He stressed that drivers must stick to their lanes as much as possible.
Needless to say, motorists must avoid going over the speed limit, especially when the weather is bad. Reduce speed to a minimum if visibility is very low, he said.
"Some people refuse to adjust their speed even when the weather is bad," he said.
It is advisable to use headlights during fog, however refrain from using a high beam. If the fog is heavy and you feel it is dangerous to drive, stop the car until the situation gets better. It is better to be late than look for danger.
The use of mobile phones is another major cause of accidents.
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