Reckless driving exposed: Abu Dhabi Police share videos of pedestrian crossing violation

Dubai: As part of the 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week, Abu Dhabi Police have launched a renewed awareness campaign urging motorists to prioritise pedestrian safety.

The initiative comes under the global theme “#MakeWalkingSafe #MakeCyclingSafe” and is aligned with the emirate’s broader vision of creating a safe, inclusive, and sustainable transport environment.

The campaign specifically targets driver behaviour at pedestrian crossings, reminding motorists of their legal obligation to stop for people at marked crossings.

Abu Dhabi Police shared real-life video footage of traffic violations, including close calls involving distracted drivers who failed to stop for pedestrians. The videos also demonstrate the correct way to yield to people crossing the street, offering a stark contrast to reckless driving.

In one clip, a vehicle narrowly misses two pedestrians at night, one of whom is seen running to avoid being hit. Another shows a 4WD driving through a zebra crossing while a pedestrian is already halfway across.

Authorities emphasised that failing to stop for pedestrians is a traffic offence in the UAE. According to Article 5 of the Federal Traffic Law, drivers must slow down and yield at pedestrian crossings—especially near schools, hospitals, and residential zones. New rules also require motorists to prioritise pedestrians in areas with a speed limit of 40 km/h, even when no crossing is marked.

Jaywalking is also subject to penalties. Pedestrians crossing roads from non-designated areas or ignoring traffic signals can be fined Dh400. Stricter penalties apply when jaywalking on roads with speed limits above 80 km/hr—offenders may face imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000.

The new pedestrian safety guidelines extend to users of personal mobility devices like bicycles and e-scooters. As per the updated law:

Call for shared responsibility

Abu Dhabi’s participation in the UN Global Road Safety Week highlights the emirate’s ongoing efforts to reduce accidents and fatalities through international collaboration and community outreach.

By promoting responsible behaviour and educating both drivers and pedestrians, the authorities aim to cultivate a traffic culture based on respect, caution, and shared accountability.

Brigadier General Mahmoud Youssef Al Baloushi, Director of the Directorate of Traffic and Security Patrols, reiterated that road safety is a shared responsibility. He urged pedestrians to use bridges, tunnels, and signal-regulated crossings, and avoid phone distractions while walking.

For motorists, he stressed the importance of staying alert near schools, residential complexes, and pedestrian zones, noting that giving priority to pedestrians reflects not only awareness but also a sense of civic duty.