Think you’re following UAE lane rules? The driving mistakes that could get you fined
Avoid fines and stay safe: Key UAE lane rules on hard shoulder, tailgating, and more.
Dubai: Motorists in the UAE are being reminded about the importance of lane discipline after Sharjah Police released footage of drivers dangerously overtaking from the hard shoulder during rush hour traffic. This reckless behaviour not only violates traffic laws but also poses serious risks to road users and emergency responders.
Using the hard shoulder is illegal and dangerous
Sharjah Police reiterated that the hard shoulder is strictly reserved for stalled or damaged vehicles and emergency services. Misusing it, such as by overtaking other vehicles is a direct violation of Article 42 of the Federal Traffic Law and carries a fine of Dh1,000 along with six black points on the driver’s licence.
This misuse could obstruct emergency vehicles from reaching the scene of an accident or breakdown, potentially delaying life-saving assistance. Authorities also reminded motorists to maintain safe distances between vehicles, especially during heavy traffic, to prevent sudden braking and collisions.
Understanding lane discipline rules
According to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), drivers must follow regulatory road markings, typically in white or yellow, which indicate the rules of the road. Failing to obey these markings is considered a traffic offence. Here’s a quick refresher on the most common road markings:
No passing line: A solid line that prohibits overtaking or turning across it unless in an emergency.
Stop line: Found at intersections with stop signs or traffic lights. You must come to a complete stop before the line and only proceed when the signal turns green and the road ahead is clear.
Give way line: A broken white line that requires you to yield to any vehicles or pedestrians. Slow down and stop if necessary to avoid a collision.
Fines for lane discipline violations
Failing to maintain lane discipline (light vehicle): Dh400
Driving on bus or taxi-only lanes (without permission): Dh400
Illegal overtaking from the right: Dh600
Sudden swerving or entering junctions at the last minute: Dh400
Authorities use advanced traffic monitoring systems and radars to detect these violations across the UAE, including key intersections in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Rules to follow for proper lane usage
To stay safe and avoid fines, here are key lane usage tips:
Stick to your lane: On freeways, stay in the far-right lane when traffic is light. Use the centre lane in heavier traffic and the left lane only when overtaking. Return to the centre or right lane once you’ve passed the slower vehicle.
Never overtake on the hard shoulder: It is strictly prohibited.
Use your mirrors and head checks: Before changing lanes, always check mirrors and perform a head check to cover blind spots. This is crucial when merging, reversing, or overtaking.
How to change lanes safely
Changing lanes requires careful planning and awareness. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Plan ahead – anticipate the need to change lanes.
Check your mirrors – be aware of surrounding vehicles.
Signal early – alert other drivers of your intention.
Head check – look over your shoulder to check blind spots.
Control your speed – adjust based on traffic flow.
Steer smoothly – avoid abrupt movements.
Cancel your indicator – once the lane change is complete.
If a driver ahead signals at the same time, allow them to change lanes first before proceeding.
The risks of tailgating
Tailgating - driving too closely behind another vehicle is one of the most dangerous habits on the road. Dubai Police has repeatedly warned against it, stressing the importance of maintaining safe distances to reduce accident risk.
Aggressive tailgating puts pressure on the driver in front, often causing sudden braking, swerving, or risky lane changes. These actions increase the likelihood of chain-reaction crashes, particularly on fast-moving roads.
How to maintain a safe following distance
Pick a fixed reference point/
Count two seconds from when the vehicle ahead passes that point.
Adjust distance if you reach the point in under two seconds.
In poor weather or at higher speeds, increase the gap to at least three to four seconds for added safety.
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