Dubai Police have issued Dh400 fines to 37 pedestrians in the Naif area since January, as part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and enforce regulations. The fines, introduced under Article 89 of the Federal Traffic Law, target jaywalkers who cross roads at unauthorized places or ignore pedestrian signals, endangering themselves and others.
Jaywalking and Road Safety in Dubai
The issue of jaywalking is not new in Dubai. Last year, eight people tragically lost their lives, and 339 others were injured in run-over accidents caused by pedestrians crossing from non-designated areas. The high number of accidents has prompted stricter enforcement by the Dubai Police, especially in densely populated areas like Naif. The fines, which amount to Dh400 per violation, aim to deter reckless pedestrian behaviour and reduce the number of accidents.
In 2023 alone, nearly 44,000 pedestrians were fined for jaywalking, reflecting the scale of the problem. Brigadier Omar Mousa Ashour, Deputy Director of Naif Police Station, reiterated that crossing guidelines must be followed to avoid dangerous situations. He also highlighted that both pedestrians and drivers share responsibility for road safety.
Experts in road safety agree that jaywalking poses a severe risk, not only to pedestrians but to drivers as well. “Enforcing penalties is essential, but public awareness campaigns are just as important,” notes a road safety consultant. The Dubai Police have made efforts to educate the public through campaigns aimed at reducing jaywalking and promoting the use of designated crossing areas.
Earlier this year, a notable case involved a driver and two jaywalkers, who were all fined after a traffic accident that resulted in pedestrian injuries. This case underlines the importance of both pedestrian and driver vigilance on the road.
Practical Tips for Pedestrian Safety
To stay safe and avoid fines, pedestrians should:
- Use designated pedestrian crossings.
- Wait for traffic signals to change before crossing.
- Always check for oncoming vehicles before stepping onto the road.
Motorists, on the other hand, are reminded to stay alert for pedestrians and adhere to speed limits, especially in high-traffic areas. Dubai continues to make strides in enhancing road safety, but it requires cooperation from both pedestrians and drivers.
