Just three days back the country introduced a new federal traffic law to reduce road fatalities and improve safety of road users. It is too early to judge whether the efforts of the traffic authorities have paid off and motorists are abiding by rules. However, the traffic patrols did not record any speed violations and use of mobile phones behind wheels was comparatively less.
Under the new law which came into effect on July 1, the categories of traffic violations have been reduced to 120 from 140. Of them, 19 violations fall under new category, which include obstructing the traffic or rubber necking for which Dh1,000 will be slapped on the offender.
According to Mohair Al Mazaroui, director of the general department of traffic at the Dubai Police, the traffic violations in Dubai has decreased since the implementation of the new law, compared to the same period last year.
On day one of new rule, the traffic patrols and teams of the general department of Dubai traffic department has recorded 1,279 traffic violations which included obstruction of traffic (208) followed by violations of lane discipline (25); wrong parking (98); tailgating (66) while 62 were fined for seat belt violations. The figures also revealed that 56 motorists were found using mobile phones while 53 stopped the vehicles in the middle of the road for no reason.
Al Mazroui added that 47 violations were recorded for not abiding by traffic signs; 16 pedestrian crossing from non-designated areas; 48 reckless reversing and 22 other violations. He reminded the motorists that driving licences will be suspended if they exceeded 24 black points.
The head of the Federal Traffic Council and assistant commander-in-chief of the Dubai Police Operations Department, Major General Mohammad Saif Al Zafin said that the new amendments are more comprehensive and an old law that has been amended. As per the new measures, fine for exceedin the speed limit of more than 20 kilometres per hour was reduced to Dh300 while using recreational bikes on a public road will invite Dh3,000 fine and 90 days of confiscation.
He added that the new list also includes exceeding the maximum speed of more than 80kmph will get a penalty of Dh3,000 and 23 black points plus 60 days of confiscation.
According to him, motorists will get a 'one grace point offer' as they will be allowed to drive with 23 black points as the driving licence will only be revoked when the limit of points exceed 24 black points.

source: Khaleejtimes