Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, is known for its strict traffic regulations and commitment to road safety. To maintain order on the road, the authorities in Abu Dhabi enforce various measures i.e. vehicle impoundment. Following, we will explore common reasons for vehicle impoundment in Abu Dhabi. Understanding these reasons is essential for residents and visitors alike to avoid hefty fines, and potential vehicle loss and contribute to safer roads.
Common Reasons for Vehicle Impoundment in Abu Dhabi
Driving recklessly in Abu Dhabi carries severe consequences such as hefty fines for traffic violations. In addition to the financial penalties, motorists may have to pay up to AED 50,000 to reclaim their impounded vehicles. Failure to do so within three months could result in the vehicle being sold at a public auction. Here is everything you need to know about car auction in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi’s Law No. 5 of 2020 for vehicle impoundment establishes strict penalties for drivers who commit traffic offences that pose others’ life in danger. Whether you are a resident of Abu Dhabi or a visitor to the Emirate, it is crucial to familiarise yourself with the regulations governing vehicle impoundment.
Reasons For Vehicle Impoundment in Abu Dhabi as per the Law No. 5
Law No. 5 of 2020 in Abu Dhabi outlines the violations that can result in vehicle impoundment and the associated fines for releasing the impounded vehicle. Here are the causes for vehicle impoundment in Abu Dhabi, along with the corresponding penalties, as stipulated by the law:
- Damaging a police vehicle: If a motorist caused damage to or collided with a police vehicle, the Abu Dhabi traffic fines imposed is AED 50,000. Additionally, they are responsible for covering the expenses incurred for repairing the damage caused.
- Causing a collision as a result of excessive speeding, abrupt manoeuvres, failure to maintain a safe distance, or not allowing pedestrians to cross: If a driver causes an accident due to excessive speeding, sudden deviation, failure to maintain a safe distance, or not giving pedestrians the right of way, they can be fined AED 5,000. For more information, check out these new speeding fine in Abu Dhabi.
- Participating in road racing: Engaging in unauthorised road racing is strictly prohibited in Abu Dhabi. Motorists caught participating in such activities face a fine of AED 50,000.
- Driving with an invalid number plate: Operating a vehicle without a valid number plate, or using plate numbers that do not comply with legal specifications, is a violation in Abu Dhabi. Offenders can be fined AED 50,000 for this offence.
- Kids under 10 years sitting in the car’s front seat: It is against the law to allow children below the age of 10 to sit in the front seat of a vehicle. Motorists who violate this regulation can face a fine of AED 5,000.
- Total traffic fines exceeding AED 7,000: Unresolved traffic violations and unpaid fines can also result in vehicle impoundment. The Abu Dhabi Traffic Department maintains a robust system to track outstanding fines and once the fines accumulate to a certain threshold, the vehicle may be impounded until the fines are settled. If an individual’s accumulated traffic fines exceed AED 7,000, they are required to pay the fines in full. You can also get discounts on traffic fines in Abu Dhabi and pay fine easily.
These regulations are in place to promote road safety, discourage dangerous behaviours and ensure compliance with traffic laws in Abu Dhabi. Motorists should be aware of these violations and their associated fines to avoid penalties and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
How to Release an Impounded Vehicle
According to Law No. 5 of 2020, the fine must be paid in full to release a vehicle from impoundment in the cases mentioned above. Failure to pay the fines within three months will result in the Abu Dhabi police auctioning off the impounded car. It is important to note that the fines mentioned are specifically for the release of the impounded vehicle in the UAE. However, additional fines may be applicable for specific traffic violations under the UAE Federal Traffic Law.
Other Common Reasons for Vehicle Impoundment in Abu Dhabi
The Ministerial Resolution No. 178 of 2017 provides a list of circumstances in which vehicles can be seized or impounded in Abu Dhabi. Some of them include:
Unauthorised Vehicle Modifications
Modifying a vehicle without obtaining necessary permits is considered a violation in Abu Dhabi. Alterations that affect a vehicle’s safety or emission standards are strictly regulated. If a vehicle is found to have unauthorised modifications, it can be impounded until the necessary approvals are obtained or the vehicle is restored to its original condition.
- Fine: AED 10,000
- Impoundment period: 30 days
Jumping Red Light
If a driver in Abu Dhabi is caught violating a red light, they could receive a fine of AED 50,000. Along with the hefty fine, their driving licence in Abu Dhabi will be confiscated for six months. Furthermore, as a consequence, their vehicle may be impounded for 30 days.
- Fine: AED 50,000
- Impoundment period: 30 days
Exceeding Speed Limit by more than 60km/hr
In Abu Dhabi, if a driver exceeds the posted speed limit of a lane by more than 60 km/h, certain penalties may apply. The specific penalties may vary depending on the circumstances and any relevant regulations in force at the time. However, it is important to note that speeding violations are generally taken seriously and can result in fines, license suspension, and potential vehicle impoundment in Abu Dhabi. It is always advisable to adhere to the posted speed limits and drive safely and responsibly.
- Fine: AED 5,000
- Impoundment period: 15 days
Reckless Driving
Abu Dhabi has a zero-tolerance policy for reckless driving. Engaging in dangerous activities such as street racing, drifting or excessive speeding can lead to immediate vehicle impoundment. The authorities aim to deter such behaviour and prioritise the safety of all road users.
- Fine: AED 50,000.
- Impoundment period: 60 days
Besides the aforementioned reasons, stopping a car in the middle of the road without any reason will also lead to penalties in the UAE. Here are the penalties of stopping a car in the UAE.
How to Get Your Vehicle Back
According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, if a vehicle is impounded due to violations outlined in Ministerial Resolution No. 178 of 2017, it can be released once the specified impoundment period has ended and all fines have been paid in full.
We end the list of reasons for vehicle impoundment in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi prioritises road safety and has established strict measures, such as vehicle impoundment, to ensure order and protect individuals on the roads. We have highlighted common reasons for vehicle impoundment, ranging from reckless driving to non-compliance with registration and accident procedures.
It emphasises the importance of all motorists, including residents and visitors, understanding these reasons to avoid legal consequences. By following traffic rules and respecting road safety regulations, everyone can contribute to safer roads in Abu Dhabi.
Please peruse the following FAQs about traffic fines in Abu Dhabi for comprehensive information on various traffic-related inquiries. Moreover, check out the Abu Dhabi toll gate registration process as it is compulsory for all drivers in the city.
Compliance with these rules saves lives and protects vehicles from impoundment and associated penalties. If you are planning to used cars for sale in Abu Dhabi, make sure you do responsible driving and maintain the safety of Abu Dhabi’s roads for the benefit of all.
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