'20 times more likely to crash': Why Dubai's new penalty for distracted driving is 'necessary'

Dubai Police on Tuesday implemented tougher rules on distracted driving, tailgating and sudden lane deviation, with motorists now facing vehicle impoundment for up to 30 days.

Residents across the emirate have welcomed the move, with many hoping that these stricter regulations will make drivers think twice before engaging in risky behaviour.

Dubai resident Nasreen hailed the move, saying: "I think this is a great idea. It has also become necessary because I see a lot of people who are using their phones while driving. The traffic has been unpredictable lately, and this serious punishment might just make people reconsider their actions."

The Indian expat recalled how her niece faced significant challenges after her car was impounded for accidentally running a red light. After that incident, she had been extra careful on the road, she said.

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Abeer Faisal, a Sudanese resident, also appreciated the new laws, believing that stricter penalties would make drivers more cautious.

"It’s scary how a little distraction can cost so much," she said, adding that modern car technology should help drivers avoid the need to use their phones. "People need to be more patient on the roads—an extra few minutes won’t hurt anyone."

On the other hand, residents like Mohamed A. expressed concerns about the severity of the new penalties. “While I understand the significance of addressing phone usage, I think 30 days can be a little too much. It’s important to be cautious, but there must be a balance,” he said.

Facts back move

An expert warns that distracted driving significantly contributes to traffic fatalities, accounting for 26 per cent of such incidents.

Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of Road Safety UAE, said that the the Ministry of Interior's data from 2023 ranked distracted driving as the leading cause of accidents.

Edelmann explained, “Distracted driving, especially due to mobile phone use, is by far the biggest culprit on our roads.” He also pointed out that international research shows distracted motorists are four times more likely to be involved in a crash compared to focused drivers. “Those texting while driving are 20 times more likely [to be involved in a crash],” he added.

• Watch: Distracted UAE drivers crash into vehicles, cause pile-up in horrifying traffic accidents