Police warn against ‘noisy drives’
abu dhabi — A Dh2,000 fine and 12 black points will be slapped on motorists who drive noisy vehicles and cause noise pollution, the Abu Dhabi Police warned on Monday.
The police have posted several reminders about traffic rules and amendments on their social media platforms, which include a warning to motorists against causing noise pollution.
Residents said a penalty for drivers is the only way that will help reduce heavy noise pollution, especially during rush hours. “The morning rush hours are the worst when it comes to drivers honking at each other,” said Mohanad Mashat. “Sometimes it feels as if these drivers are racing with each other, honking and flashing their lights to get out of the way. It’s obscene, dangerous and can cause other drivers to lose their concentration,” he added.
“I have noticed that noise pollution and road rage have significantly decreased within the past year, so I think the traffic awareness and new rules are working very well,” said his wife.
In July last year, the UAE’s Federal Traffic Law was amended, placing new fines and regulations across the country. The law includes various amendments, including a fine of Dh800 and four black points for drivers texting or using their mobile phone while driving, a fine of Dh1,500 for having window tints above 50 per cent, and a fine of Dh3,000 and 23 black points as well as 60 days of vehicle impoundment if drivers exceed the speed limit by more than 80 kilometres an hour.
The morning rush hours are the worst when it comes to drivers honking at each other.” Mohanad Mashat, resident
Driving under the influence of alcohol will lead to Dh20,000 fine and/or a jail term, which will be decided by court, as well as 23 black points and 60 days vehicle impoundment. Expired tyres can also land drivers a fine of Dh500 and four black points, as well as seven day impoundment.
There is also a Dh500 fine, four black points and seven day vehicle impounding for failing to drive with valid insurance and registration. Motorists will also be fined Dh1,000, 12 black points and vehicle impounding for a month for ignoring traffic lights.
The law also stipulates that all people in a car must wear a seatbelt and failing to do so will result in a Dh400 fine and four black points. There is also a fine of Dh3,000 and 24 black points for driving passengers commercially without permission, and a fine of Dh1,000 and six black points for crowding during accidents.
Children under four years of age must also be seated in their appropriate car seat, more, drivers allowing children that are 10 and under to sit in the passenger seat will receive a fine of Dh400.
The Abu Dhabi Police continue to remind the public about these and more traffic amendments through their social media platforms, awareness programmes and safety initiatives.