A Nissan car involved in the hit-and-run case in Ras Al Khaimah. ARCHIVE

The UAE’s revised traffic law, which came into effect on March 29, introduces stricter penalties for serious traffic offences, including hit-and-run cases, driving under the influence, and reckless driving.

Hit-and-run penalties

Under the new rules, fleeing the scene of an accident without reporting it can lead to up to one year in jail and a fine between Dh50,000 and Dh100,000. If the driver's negligence results in death, penalties increase to longer jail time  and a minimum Dh50,000 fine. If the incident occurs under aggravating circumstances, such as driving in a flooded valley, penalties increase to a minimum of one year in jail and a fine of no less than Dh100,000.

DUI penalties

Stronger penalties are also in place for for DUI (driving under the influence). Drivers caught under the influence of alcohol now face fines between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000. Violators also face licence suspension for three months on the first offence, six months for the second offence, and cancellation of licence on the third offence. For drug-impaired driving, penalties are even tougher, with fines between Dh30,000 and Dh200,000. Violators also face licence suspension for six months on the first offence, one year on the second offence, and cancellation of licence on the third offence. If a driver causes a fatal accident while intoxicated, they will face at least one year in jail and a fine of no less than Dh100,000.

Lower minimum driving age

The minimum age to obtain a UAE driving licence has been reduced to 17 years old.

Stricter jaywalking fines

Pedestrians crossing roads improperly face a fine of between Dh5,000 to Dh10,000 if jaywalking leads to an accident. Jaywalkers also face a minimum three-month jail term if they cross roads with speed limits of 80 km/h or more. Authorities have also been given the power to arrest drivers involved in serious offences, including causing death or injury, reckless driving, and refusing to provide identification. The revised law aims to enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries across the UAE. ICA/Expat Media
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