Caution: Dh1,000 fine for staring at traffic accidents

Dubai: Gawking at traffic accidents can land you in trouble with the authorities – and slapped with a Dh1,000 fine.

Abu Dhabi Police are warning motorists to stop rubbernecking in the wake of a recent accident at a residential area on the Dubai - Al Ain Road.

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Nine people sustained minor injuries when a speeding vehicle crashed into another car that was parked on the side of the road. But due to the large presence of rubberneckers and bystanders, ambulance and police patrols were delayed and unable to quickly attend to the injured.

“Rubbernecking is considered as an uncivilised type of behavior that can endanger the lives of other road users. Motorists should not slow down to watch traffic accidents, as doing so can cause further traffic congestion and prevent ambulances from arriving at the scene on time,” said Colonel Ahmad Al Zuwaidi, director of traffic in Al Ain.

The fine for rubbernecking was introduced in 2017 as part of the UAE’s amended traffic law. The updated law also included the Dh1,000 fine for obstructing or blocking roads during accidents.