Truck driver arrested for 44-vehicle pile-up
abu dhabi — The Abu Dhabi Police have arrested the truck driver, who was responsible for the pileup crash that involved 44 vehicles and injured at least 22 people on Tuesday morning.
The police said the truck driver, whose identification has not been released, drove during the fog despite the ban on buses and trucks during the hazardous weather condition.
Brigadier Khalifa Mohammed Al Khaili, director of the traffic and patrols directorate, said the driver was driving during peak fog hours, despite the police issuing daily warnings and alert messages through various social media platforms.
“The truck driver drove his vehicle in a way that put his life and the lives of others at risk,” added Brigadier Al Khaili.
The accident, which took place on the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Street (Abu Dhabi-Dubai road) occurred at 8.08am after the Kizad Bridge in Al Samha.
A blanket of heavy fog caused low visibility for motorists and the police said the truck driver’s failure to follow instructions has lead to immense consequences.
At least two of the victims from the pile-up sustained serious injuries, two other received moderate injuries and 18 people received minor injuries.
The accident also blocked traffic from Dubai on the E311 on Tuesday.
“It is clear that the truck driver drove his vehicle in a reckless and dangerous manner. He has been arrested, prosecuted and will be brought to trial for his accountability.”
Brigadier Al Khaili also warned truck, bus drivers and motorists of heavy vehicles against driving during peak hours, which are 6am to 9am, and from 3pm to 6pm.