TRAFFIC AND PETROL

Traffic and Petrol

Traffic and Petrol

Introduction

The UAE has an outstanding infrastructure, but the driving standards are not up to the mark. Deat rates, due to traffic accidents are significantly high in the UAE. It is known to have one of the highest death rates in the world due to such incidents on the road. According to the Al Ain Police, the statistics shows that in every 48 hours, one person is killed in road accidents and one gets injured after every four hours. Drivers don't seem to bother to look around for other cars on the road while driving. They usually switch lanes, overspeed, get too close to other cars, pull out suddenly or drift on regurlar basis. (Barss 2006, 353)

The traffic control system of Al Ain has taken certain initiatives to prevent road accidents. For instance, they prohibit the use of mobile phones while driving, and charge fee if a driver violates the law. However, even though the use of cell phones is not allowed, drivers seem to take it lightly and continue their old, bad habits.

In the UAE, it is mandatory for a driver to wear seatbelts. Furthermore, a driver has to drive on the right hand side of the road, and children below 10 years of age cannot sit on the front seat of the car. This law is common across the country, including Al Ain. However, children are still seen sitting in the front on their parent's lap. As far as fines and penalties are concerned, anyone who violates the traffic law is charged with Dhs.100, and three points on his or her license. Fines for overspeeding is up to Dhs.400, whereas parking fines begin with Dhs.100, with points attached.

The maximum number of points which can be added to a license before it is revoked is 12. In most of the cases, fines are paid at the time of renewing yearly car registration. Nonetheless, parking tickets need to be paid within a week or two, and they usually appear on the windscreen of the car. In case if the person fails to pay the fine on time, additional penalty is charged on the original fine. (World Health Organization 2004, 67)

One needs to be extra cautious when driving, and try to keep a reasonable stopping distance with the car in front and check mirrors repeatedly. Traffic violation can be reported at the Traffic Police's toll free hotline (800 4353). The Abu Dhabi Police have a really useful website (www.adpolice.gov.ae) which offers all information relevant to driving, such as traffic violations, road maps and contact numbers. For complete information on Highway Codes, safety and road rules, Safe Driving Handbook is also available from the Emirates Motor Sports Federation. (Mekky 1999, 57)

Driving Licenses

The best option for visitors or new arrivals wanting to drive in Abu Dhabi is to rent a car. A person can do this with either an international driving license or a temporary license issued by the traffic department. To apply for these licenses you have ...