4 horrific multi-vehicle crashes after car stops in the middle of UAE road

Abu Dhabi Police

In an effort to underscore the perilous consequences of reckless driving, Abu Dhabi Police recently released surveillance footage depicting four harrowing multi-vehicle crashes caused by cars halting unexpectedly on the road. This initiative, aimed at enlightening the public about the grave risks associated with violating traffic laws, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that endanger the lives of motorists and other road users.

The 45-second clip captured by surveillance cameras vividly illustrates the catastrophic outcomes of vehicles coming to an abrupt stop in the middle of a busy highway. In each instance, drivers found themselves in perilous situations, with subsequent collisions resulting from the inability of other vehicles to halt in time due to the high-speed limits on the roadway.

The first incident unfolded when an SUV suddenly halted in the roadway, its hazard lights flashing, after a car part malfunctioned. A van swiftly collided with the stationary SUV from behind, sending it hurtling several meters away and setting off a chain reaction of collisions involving multiple vehicles.

In a similarly alarming scenario, four cars collided with one another after a 4WD vehicle abruptly stopped in the middle of the road. The surveillance footage also captured a pickup truck coming to a halt on the roadway, leading to a cascade of collisions as other vehicles attempted to swerve into alternate lanes to avoid the impending crash, only to be ensnared in the chaos.

The Abu Dhabi Police, through this footage, underscored the imperative for motorists to refrain from halting in the middle of the road under any circumstances. According to federal traffic laws, such a violation carries severe penalties, including a Dh1,000 fine and six black points on the driver's record. Moreover, apart from the financial repercussions, such actions can result in irreparable damage to vehicles and, tragically, loss of life.

To mitigate the risks posed by vehicle breakdowns or emergencies, drivers are strongly advised to seek refuge at the nearest exit or designated emergency area whenever possible. In instances where immediate relocation is unfeasible, contacting emergency services via the hotline 999 is paramount to ensuring swift assistance.

Brigadier Mahmoud Yousef Al Balushi, Director of the Traffic and Security Patrols Directorate, emphasized the critical importance of adhering to specific protocols when faced with sudden vehicle malfunctions. He urged drivers to prioritize safety by promptly moving their vehicles away from traffic lanes and utilizing designated emergency zones. In cases of urgency, the right shoulder of the road may be utilized, provided that four-way hazard lights are activated to alert oncoming traffic.

Furthermore, Al Balushi stressed the necessity of deploying reflective emergency triangles at a significant distance behind the disabled vehicle to forewarn approaching drivers of the hazard. Motorists were also reminded to refrain from remaining inside their vehicles or on the roadway itself, prioritizing the safety of both themselves and their passengers. In the event of an emergency, immediate action should be taken, with drivers urged to promptly dial 999 to summon assistance.

The overarching message conveyed by the Abu Dhabi Police serves as a poignant reminder of the imperative for drivers to maintain unwavering focus and attention while behind the wheel. By remaining vigilant and proactive in addressing vehicle malfunctions or emergencies, motorists can help avert potentially catastrophic accidents, thereby safeguarding lives and promoting road safety for all.