Cruise control fails on Dubai highway, police rescue driver

In a swift and professional response, Dubai Police traffic patrols rescued a driver whose cruise control malfunctioned while traveling on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road towards Abu Dhabi.

Specialized teams acted within minutes of receiving the report, effectively preventing the driver and other road users from potential serious traffic accidents.

Brigadier Jumaa Salem bin Suwaidan, Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, stated that the operations room received a report about a driver unable to control his vehicle's speed due to a malfunctioning cruise control system, causing the car to move without responding to the accelerator or brakes.

He pointed out that the traffic patrols were immediately dispatched to the location and spotted the vehicle. “They coordinated a careful escort while guiding the driver through phone calls and direct instructions, informing him of the necessary steps to take in such situations to ensure his safety and that of others,” Bin Suwaidan added.

Bin Suwaidan noted that the patrols ensured the vehicle's safety by establishing a secure corridor both in front of and behind it, moving other vehicles away to prevent potential collisions. He stated, “Thanks to their effective coordination, the driver was able to safely maneuver the vehicle to the side of the road without any injuries or damage.”

The Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police emphasized that the quick response and immediate collaboration between the operations room and field patrols were crucial in managing the situation, praising the traffic teams for their efficiency and professionalism in handling emergencies.

Moreover, Bin Suwaidan underscored the importance of drivers remaining calm and avoiding panic if they encounter a cruise control malfunction. He urged them to ensure their seatbelt is fastened, turn on the hazard lights and headlights, and promptly contact the emergency number (999) at the Command and Control Centre to report the situation.

Bin Suwaidan further advised motorists to shift the transmission to neutral (N), turn off the engine, and restart it immediately. If that does not resolve the issue, the driver should apply firm, constant pressure on the brakes until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Failing that, they should gradually release the handbrake while maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel. If all previous attempts failed, the driver should alternate shifting the transmission between neutral (N) and drive (D) to regain control. If any of these methods work before the traffic patrol arrives, the driver should safely maneuver the vehicle off the road.

The Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police urged all drivers to perform regular vehicle checks and ensure the safety of critical systems, such as brakes and cruise control, emphasizing that awareness and preventive measures are essential to prevent dangerous malfunctions.

Bin Suwaidan highlighted that the safety of drivers and road users starts with awareness and a clear understanding of how to respond in emergencies. He stressed that making the right decision at the critical moment can significantly reduce serious risks.