Dubai Police warn drivers against stopping on road shoulders after fatal hit-and-run

The Dubai Police General Command has cautioned drivers about the risks of stopping unnecessarily on road shoulders, stressing the need to utilize the nearest secure parking spots away from the roadway in cases of sudden vehicle breakdowns or emergencies. Stopping without justification on road shoulders poses a major traffic offense that can result in severe accidents and disrupt traffic flow.

This advisory follows an incident where a pedestrian lost their life in a hit-and-run accident on Sheikh Zayed Road near the Al Yalayis Bridge heading toward Abu Dhabi, caused by unsafe stopping on the left shoulder of the road.

They highlighted that parking without justification on the road shoulder is a significant traffic offense, often resulting in severe accidents and obstructing traffic flow. This statement followed a tragic hit-and-run incident on Sheikh Zayed Road, just before the Al Yalayis Bridge heading toward Abu Dhabi, attributed to an unsafe stop on the left shoulder of the road.

Brigadier Juma Bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Directorate of Traffic, explained that the accident occurred due to a collision between two vehicles. Following the crash, both drivers stopped on the left shoulder of the road, adjacent to the first express lane—a place where stopping is prohibited except in emergencies because of the high risk involved. One of the drivers exited his vehicle to assess the damage caused by the collision. During this time, a third vehicle approached from behind, and its driver was caught off guard by the individual on the road. Due to the speed and limited space, the driver was unable to avoid him, resulting in the man being fatally struck at the scene.

He highlighted that speeding and not keeping a safe distance were major factors increasing the risk of accidents. He urged drivers to follow speed limits, stay alert to their surroundings, and be prepared for unforeseen events on highways. Additionally, he emphasized that Dubai Police will maintain strict enforcement of penalties for reckless driving that jeopardizes lives and property.

Brigadier Juma Bin Suwaidan emphasized that parking on the road shoulder is a grave traffic violation that can result in severe accidents, leading to injuries and fatalities. He pointed out that the road shoulder is exclusively designated for emergencies, such as sudden vehicle breakdowns or urgent medical situations, and its use for any other purpose is strictly prohibited.