Stop breaking traffic rules

Dubai

I wrote a community report about motorists jumping the red light or entering a congested junction in a rush last year, and hoped that after it was published, people’s attitude might change. But, I was wrong. This issue continues to persist in the Deira area of Dubai a year later.

There’s a lack of discipline among most drivers in Dubai. Motorists are always in a rush to reach their destination. In this specific junction in Deira, as seen in the photograph, motorists will always enter the junction, even if it is entirely congested. They will not stop to allow the junction to clear. This is a rule that is taught in driving schools around the country; one has to stop and wait till the junction is clear. Additionally, there is also a sign at the traffic signals warning motorists of the same.

In the process, the signal changes to red and traffic is then at a standstill for motorists waiting at each artery of the junction. I don’t know why people can’t learn to obey the traffic rules.

I really hope that the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) takes notice of these cars and fines the drivers heavily. The authorities could also install a camera at this junction so that people who ignore the rule or jump a signal can be spotted and fined.

— The reader is a sales coordinator based in Dubai.

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FACTBOX:

According to a list of traffic offences in the UAE issued by the Ministry of Interior, jumping a red light can result in a fine of Dh800, eight black points and the vehicle can be impounded for 15 days.