Clampdown on use of mobiles while driving

Abu Dhabi: Motorists caught driving recklessly while using their mobile phones for texting or conversation without a hands-free device, will soon have their licences suspended for 30 days, a senior traffic official said yesterday.

As per the traffic law, the offence will also be punishable with a Dh1,000 fine, and the accrual of 12 black points on the driver's record, said Colonel Hussain Ahmad Al Harithi, director of the Abu Dhabi Police Traffic and Patrols Directorate.

The measures come close on the heels of Emirati footballer Diab Awana's tragic death in a car crash last week. Reports suggest the footballer may have been using his smartphone moments before the crash.

Lieutenant General Shaikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior thanked all young Emiratis who have launched online campaigns aimed at stopping these harmful practices.