New UAE rule on jail for overtaking on hard shoulder draws mixed response

The Directorate of Traffic and Patrols at Abu Dhabi Police has announced a punishment of up to a month in prison, as well as 10 black points and a Dh600 fine for drivers who overtake others through the hard shoulder.

“The penalty is in line with the Federal Traffic Law, which covers the UAE as a whole and not just Abu Dhabi. Drivers who overtake others through the hard shoulder represent a danger to everyone else on the road because sometimes they come in the way of ambulances or police cars,” Brigadier Hussain Ahmad Al Harthi, head of the directorate, had told Gulf News.

Abu Dhabi residents react to the new rule:

Osama Mohammed Fadl, 34, banking professional: “I think the government should launch a campaign on radio and other forms of media to educate people about the purpose and importance of hard shoulder. Many motorists do not realise how critical it is for road safety. Building awareness is crucial before imposing such harsh punishments.” 

Dalmooj Al Romaithi, 46, businessman: “It is mostly youngsters who flout the traffic rules and drive on the hard shoulder. They are immature drivers. Harsh penalties like jail for a month will definitely encourage irresponsible and immature motorists to toe the line. I fully support this new rule.” 

Abdul Kalam Shafeeq, 40, technician: “It is the most annoying thing when you see some drivers acting smart and using the hard shoulder to beat traffic jams. The rule is for everyone to follow. Those who scoff at traffic rules deserve to cool their heels in jail.” 

Seigmond Abaed, 29, financial advisor:

“I do not think it is such a big crime to drive on the hard shoulder and get jailed for doing so. Of course, we have to follow the rules. But imprisonment is stretching it a bit too far, I think the authorities should impose a fine and may be double the fine for a repeated offence.”