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Over 4,000 drivers fined Dh400 each for lane change violations in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi - The violations had resulted in 235 crashes.

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More than 4,000 motorists have been fined in Abu Dhabi for sudden change of lanes or lane swerving during the past eight months of this year, according to traffic authorities.

The Abu Dhabi Traffic and Patrols Directorate said 4,311 violations were recorded against drivers caught changing lanes suddenly and without using indicators from January until August 20, 2019.

Officers also said lane swerving violations led to 235 crashes on Abu Dhabi roads, in which one person died and six others were injured, during the same period.

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Last year, police recorded 17,349 violations against drivers who didn't use indicators while changing lanes.

The fine for sudden change of lanes or not using indicators is Dh400.

Traffic officers have warned that switching of lanes without warning was very dangerous and urged them to approach traffic junctions with caution.

"The sudden change of lane especially when approaching traffic lights is bad road behaviour, which compromises the safety of the driver and puts his life and the lives of other motorists at risk," said a police officer.

The Abu Dhabi Police recently released a video clip to educate commuters on how to change lanes correctly. The force reminded the public about traffic rules through their social media platforms as a part of their awareness programmes and safety initiatives.

A road safety expert in Abu Dhabi warned that suddenly changing lanes by cutting in front of another vehicle can lead to sideswipe accidents.

"Sudden swerving in front of another car can easily cause a horrible accident due to not paying attention or not being able to see the driver who is being cut off," said the expert, adding that it's quite difficult for the driver being cut off to stop in time.

Pakistani driver based in Abu Dhabi, Mustafa Khan, said he always sees people changing lanes suddenly and without using indicators.

"I have been driving for a long time here and I often come across reckless and selfish drivers who make abrupt turns or switching lanes without using indicators," said Mustafa.

"This is a dangerous act as the driver is unmindful of the vehicle behind him or her."

ismail@khaleejtimes.com