Automotive technology may have improved a lot in terms of safety, but human error and negligence is still a major cause of road accidents. The best way to reduce the risk of such mishaps is to ensure safe driving practices and behaviour. Not only should one focus on what needs to be done, but also on what needs to be avoided.
Here is the list of the most dangerous things to avoid while driving. These tips can help you, and the passengers in your car stay safe until you reach the destination.
List of 10 Dangerous Things to Avoid While Driving
Driving under Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or any drug is one of the biggest causes of traffic accidents. Drugs/alcohol cause blurred vision and also hinder your ability to focus. Not to mention, it can result in a heavy fine and penalties. In Dubai, a driver caught under the influence of alcohol and drugs faces huge fines or jail time as decided by the court. For instance, a motorist charged for driving under influence can get a fine of up to AED 20,000 along with 23 black points and vehicle confiscation for 60 days. Also, the court may suspend their licence for 1 year from the day of the verdict.
Over Speeding
Over speeding is the second biggest reason for traffic mortalities across the globe. Exceeding the legal speed limits can put many lives in danger, including your own. Many drivers lose control over a vehicle and ultimately cause deadly injuries or property damage. As per the UAE traffic laws, motorists who exceed the speed limit by 80 kmph will face a fine of AED 3,000, 23 black points and their vehicles will also be impounded for 60 days.
Using Phone While Driving
Using a cellphone while driving is one of the most important things to avoid while driving. Many drivers use a phone while driving, either to make phone calls or to write messages. Using the cell phone while driving reduces reaction times by 35%, even when using a hands-free device. In the UAE, using a cell phone while driving can cause you AED 400 fine and 4 black points.
To avoid the violation, the best thing drivers can do is, park a vehicle on a safe street and only return to driving once they have finished their tasks with their cell phone.
Not Wearing Seatbelts
Not wearing seatbelts is a bad idea. While airbags can make your car safer, they too are designed to work with seatbelts. Therefore, all the passengers are required to wear a seatbelt at all times.
Also, kids up to four years old must use a child car safety seat and shouldn’t be seated in the front seat if until 10 years old and 145 cm tall. Those who violate these rules must pay AED 400 fine and face 4 black points.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving can mean any careless driving behaviour that can endanger lives and property. This can include driving with no regard for traffic rules, driving with one hand, overspeeding or overtaking other cars. Reckless driving can only harm the driver but will also incur a fine of up to AED 2,000, 23 black points and a vehicle impounded for at least 60 days in the UAE.
Ignoring Traffic Signals
Running a red light is a common violation and one of the most important things you should avoid while driving. It can cause serious accidents and incur a fine of AED 1,000 and 12 black points. Also, the vehicle can be impounded for 30 days in the UAE.
Moreover, heavy vehicles such as trucks will face a fine of AED 3,000 for the same violation and the suspension of their driving licence for at least one year. Therefore, try to avoid activities that distract drivers, stay focused and make a habit of slowing down the vehicle when you see the yellow signal light.
Not Maintaining Distance
Maintaining a safe following distance is extremely important no matter how busy or empty the road is. Road Safety UAE advised maintaining a safe distance of 56 meters when driving at a speed of 100 km/h. The distance is recommended under normal road and weather conditions.
The safe following distance between two vehicles is of 2 seconds, quoted by Abu Dhabi Police. The rule allows you to stop on time if necessary. However, if a driver fails to maintain the recommended distance, it will result in the AED 400 fine and 4 black points.
Eating While Driving
Another important thing that you should avoid while driving is eating. Munching and drinking while driving cause unnecessary distraction, so it is best to eat a light meal before you drive.
Not Maintaining Lane Discipline
Many drivers unnecessarily change lanes and try to overtake a vehicle without giving an indicator. As per the driving rules in the UAE, if the changing lane lights are not working, then you will face the fine of AED 400 along with 2 black points
Also, each lane is marked for the motorists in the UAE; the left-most lane is the fastest one. If you are a slow driver then, avoid driving in the fast lane because this lane is designated for those who want to drive at maximum speed. In Abu Dhabi, there is a fine of AED 400 for driving slow in the fast lane.
Music at High Volume
One needs to avoid listening to songs while driving. Also, we must be careful with the volume since high volume can make unaware of the surrounding. It may be that an ambulance is approaching or someone needs some emergency help. However, if you really want to listen to music then use handsfree.
Here we conclude our guide on 10 dangerous things to avoid while driving a vehicle. Aside from these driving mistakes, the condition of your car can also contribute to accidents and land you in legal trouble.
There are several types of traffic radars installed in the UAE for effective monitoring. Therefore, it is important to check your car’s brake, engine, tires and other safety features before leaving home. If your car is causing frequent problems then it’s better to find a better one.
If any point you are considering to buy a used car in the UAE, check out these popular ones on dubizzle:
- Second-hand BMW cars for sale in the UAE
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- Second-hand Toyota for cars in the UAE
- Buy used Nissan cars in the UAE
Stay tuned to the UAE’s leading car blogs to get more information on safe driving practices and general driving tips.
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