UAE officials continually urge pedestrians to use designated crossing areas, introducing severe penalties for jaywalking and tightening road safety laws. Despite these measures, some individuals still dash across roads to save time.
Sharjah police released a video showing a tragic accident where a man runs across a pedestrian crossing as a car approaches, leading to a fatal collision.
The man, though crossing at a designated spot, appears to do so while the traffic light is green for vehicles. Authorities emphasized that “nearly every accident report begins with unsafe crossing.”
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Crossing recklessly to save a few seconds endangers not only the pedestrian but also other road users. Accidents impact the victim and their loved ones, authorities reminded. Watch the video shared by Sharjah Police here:
Jaywalking Penalties
The new traffic law effective March 29 imposes heavy fines and potential jail time for jaywalking across the UAE, defined as crossing from unauthorized areas.
Previously, the fine for jaywalking was Dh400. Under the new law, offenders could face imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000 if a traffic accident results.
Additionally, those crossing at undesignated locations on roads with speed limits of 80kmph or more will incur higher penalties. Fines start at Dh10,000, with potential imprisonment of at least three months, or one of these penalties.
