Red light jumping in Abu Dhabi kills eight in 2010

Abu Dhabi: At least eight people have been killed and 19 others left injured after jumping red lights this year, Abu Dhabi police disclosed on Sunday.

The police have called on the public to reduce speed as they approach traffic signals in order to avoid causing serious accidents.

Colonel Mohammad Dahi Sultan, head of the traffic investigations department, said that accidents at traffic signals have been found to be at higher risk of fatalities and severe injuries.

"Jumping the red light caused the death of eight people and left 19 seriously injured between January and August," he said.

Considered a serious traffic offence, motorists caught jumping the red light face a fine of Dh800, besides the confiscation of the vehicle for up to two weeks and eight black points on the driver's licence. Reckless motorists will not be able to escape the law since all intersections in the city are closely monitored by cameras at all times.

Colonel Sultan appealed to drivers to be extra cautious during Eid. He urged motorists to park only at designated spaces to avoid obstructing traffic flow. The call comes as part of a traffic safety awareness campaign launched by the police to reduce accidents during the last ten days of Ramadan and during Eid.

Meanwhile, police have stepped up patrols on all streets, especially at places where traffic jams are expected as families are preparing to celebrate Eid.

Traffic patrol teams will focus on areas close to malls and marketplaces, Colonel Khamis Ishaq Mohammad of the traffic police said.

He reminded motorists to abide by the traffic laws, follow the speed limits, use seat belts, avoid speaking on mobile phones and leave adequate distance between vehicles.

"Youngsters must stay away from any uncivilised behaviour on the streets such as racing or driving recklessly. Those caught doing so will face the full force of the law," he cautioned.

He also appealed to parents and families to take special care of children.

"Last year, on Eid Al Fitr, four children were involved in accidents in which three sustained moderate injuries and one minor injuries."

Children should not be allowed to play with balls or ride their motorbikes unsupervised on streets where vehicles pass, he added.

Penalties

- Dh800 fine

- Eight black points

- Vehicle impounded for 14 days