Dubai: Think twice before posting photos and videos of traffic accidents in the UAE, as it can land you with a hefty Dh150,000 fine.
Abu Dhabi Police are warning residents against crowding and taking photos at accident sites, as such kinds of behaviour can lead to serious and fatal consequences.
Brigadier Khalifa Mohammed Al Khaili, director of Traffic and Patrols of Abu Dhabi Police, said: “Taking photos at accident sites is a negative social phenomenon that delay the work of traffic patrols, ambulances and civil defence vehicles.
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"Due to such delays, it may result in the victim’s condition to worsen or may even cause fatalities,” he said.
The strict penalties were enforced according to the UAE’s Cybercrime Law No 5 of 2012, Article No. 21, which stated that anyone who uses an electronic device that invades a person’s privacy will be slapped with a fine of Dh150,000 to Dh500,000, and up to six months of imprisonment.
Brig Al Khaili also cautioned residents on the consequences of this type of "uncivilized behaviour" that may endangers their lives and the lives of others.
The awareness campaign was carried out by the Traffic and Patrols Directorate and the Security Media Department at Abu Dhabi Police, with the collaboration of du, under the slogan “Post Wisely”.
Earlier this year, Abu Dhabi Police were on the hunt for residents who recorded a horrific traffic accident and posted it on social media. The video showed how a reckless driver rammed into a 19-year-old Arab national, who happened to be standing on the median strip.
Motorists who jump out of their vehicles to gawk at traffic accidents will also be fined Dh1,000 for obstructing and blocking roads, as it delays first emergency responders from arriving at the scene.
