Dubai Police rescue female driver after cruise control malfunction on Emirates Road

In a swift and professional response, the Dubai Police's traffic patrols rescued a female driver whose cruise control had malfunctioned while she was travelling on the Emirates Road towards Abu Dhabi. Specialised teams arrived at the scene within minutes of receiving the report, averting the risk of a serious traffic accident for the driver and other road users.

Brigadier Juma Salem Bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Traffic Department at Dubai Police, explained that the operations room had received a report that a female driver had lost control of her vehicle due to a malfunction in the cruise control system, causing the car to continue driving despite her pressing the brake pedal.

He explained that the traffic patrol immediately responded to the reported location and accurately identified and escorted the vehicle. The patrol teams then communicated directly with the driver, guiding her through the correct procedures to follow in such situations and ensuring her safety and that of other road users.

He added, "The patrols secured the vehicle by creating a safe passageway in front of and behind it while moving other vehicles out of its path to avoid any potential collisions. Thanks to tight coordination and calm behaviour, the driver was able to stop the vehicle safely on the side of the road."

Brigadier Jumaa Salem Bin Suwaidan emphasised that the rapid response and immediate coordination between the operations room and the patrols on the ground played a decisive role in bringing the situation under control. He praised the efficiency and professionalism of the traffic teams in dealing with such emergency incidents.

Brigadier Jumaa Bin Suwaidan emphasised the importance of drivers staying calm if they experience a problem with their cruise control. They should fasten their seatbelts, turn on the four-way hazard lights and headlights, and immediately call 999 to explain the situation accurately.

"In such cases, it is recommended that you try to reduce the vehicle’s speed by applying the brakes continuously and gradually, or by shifting the transmission to the neutral (N) position. If these attempts are unsuccessful, the handbrake should be applied gradually while holding the steering wheel firmly. If the problem persists, move the transmission between the 'N' and 'D' positions several times in an attempt to reduce the speed. If any of these steps succeed before the patrols arrive, the vehicle must be stopped safely off the road and the driver must wait for the competent authorities to arrive,” he said.

He urged drivers to carry out regular vehicle inspections to ensure the safety of their brakes, cruise control and other vital systems. He emphasised that regular maintenance and proactive awareness can reduce the likelihood of sudden breakdowns on the road. He stressed that driver safety begins with awareness and knowledge of how to handle such situations, adding that making the right decision at the right time can prevent significant risks to the driver and others.