Sharjah Police: Delay on emergency vehicles could cost a life — and Dh3,000 fine

Sharjah: Sharjah Police have renewed their appeal to motorists to give way immediately to emergency vehicles, warning that delays of just a few seconds can put lives at risk.

The reminder comes as police launched a new road safety awareness campaign urging drivers to respond correctly when they see flashing lights or hear sirens. The campaign video features real emergency response scenes involving police patrols, ambulances, and Civil Defence units, highlighting how unsafe driving behaviour can delay life-saving missions.

Authorities said emergency vehicles are often slowed not by congestion, but by distracted driving, mobile phone use, panic braking, stopping in traffic lanes and misuse of the hard shoulder, which is reserved exclusively for emergency services.

Sharjah Police stressed that the road is a shared responsibility, and yielding to emergency vehicles is both a legal obligation and a humanitarian duty.

Major Abdul Aziz Saeed Al Yahyai, of the Traffic and Patrol Department at Sharjah Police, said motorists are legally required to give way immediately when emergency vehicles approach.

“Drivers must move safely and calmly to allow emergency teams to pass without obstruction. Cooperation on the road can save lives,” he said.

Police added that violations are monitored through smart traffic systems and dashcams installed in emergency vehicles, enabling authorities to take action against offenders.

According to Sharjah Police statistics, 17 violations were recorded in 2024 against motorists who failed to yield to emergency vehicles, compared to 30 violations in 2023.

Each offence carries a Dh3,000 fine, six black points and a 30-day vehicle impoundment.