Driving in Dubai is fun and challenging. However, car accidents are common, and the population has increased since last year. Here’s a comprehensive informational guide on how to avoid car accidents and have a safe and sound journey on the roads of Dubai.
Understanding and following road rules is essential for drivers in Dubai. If you’re new to Dubai, you should practice getting used to the road conditions and avoiding car accidents. Car accidents can happen for several reasons, some of which can be avoided, while others are unavoidable.
Let’s dive deeper into the most common types of accidents.
Most Common Types of Car Accidents
- Roll-over accidents
- Backing collision
- Rear-end collision
- Head-on collision
- Single-vehicle accident
- Parked car accident
These are some of the most common car accidents. Considering the strict fines in Dubai, drivers can prevent them by following the road rules and guidelines on the Road and Transport Authority’s (RTA) website and keeping a clean license record.
Car Accidents and How to Avoid Them
Drivers can learn to avoid car accidents or react in emergencies to ensure safe and comfortable driving in Dubai. Here are some of the car accidents and how you can prevent them.
Roll-Over Accidents
Roll-over accidents involve a car tipping over or rolling over on its roof or side. They are the most petrifying car accidents, and high speeds, side collisions with other vehicles, or sharp turns cause them. These accidents endanger drivers’ and passengers’ lives. In this situation, staying calm to evacuate from the car is crucial.
To avoid this situation, drivers should focus on their speed limits when taking sharp turns, especially cars with high ground clearance, like SUVs and trucks. A vehicle with a higher center of gravity is at a higher risk of getting involved in a car accident.
Backing Collision
Backing collisions occur when a car reverses in a parking lot or driveway and hits a curb or a pedestrian. This type of car accident is less likely to be dangerous, considering vehicles move slowly when reversing. However, it is still crucial to avoid both small and big collisions.
To avoid collisions, drivers must check all rearview mirrors and cameras before reversing, ensuring no objects or pedestrians are in their cars’ blind spots. When your area is clear, you can reverse, avoiding a backing collision.
Rear-End Collision
A rear-end collision occurs when a car crashes into another vehicle from the back. This car accident can cause multiple cars to crash into each other. Sudden stops, driving too distracted, or tailgating can cause this. This is another petrifying accident, as not just one car can be injured, but multiple cars all at once.
To avoid this collision, drivers should typically keep a safe distance from up-front vehicles of about 3 seconds and avoid tailgating.
Head-On Collision
This car accident can result in one of the most severe and horrifying accidents as two vehicles approach each other at the same speed and collide. For instance, if two cars travel at 40km/h, their combined speed will be 80km/h.
Drivers must activate their lane departure warning system to avoid this unexpected situation. They must also pay close attention to road signs, especially on curved roads, and follow speed limits while staying in their lane. Additionally, they must avoid taking over another vehicle on a two-way highway unless and until it is necessary and completely safe.
Single-Vehicle Car Accidents
A single-vehicle accident occurs when a single car collides with a tree, pole, or fence on the street, causing damage to the vehicle. Drivers are mostly blamed for being too distracted when these accidents occur. However, single-vehicle car accidents can also happen when drivers attempt to avoid road hazards, which can be a contributing factor.
Want to avoid single-vehicle car accidents? Drivers must know their modern car features and effectively use their driver fatigue detection system. It is essential to postpone plans in bad weather, as Dubai’s smooth pavement can cause single-vehicle accidents. Additionally, lane swerving and sudden maneuvering must be avoided to prevent crashes and ensure safe driving.
Parked Car Accident
Parked car accidents are also prevalent and can be caused by many factors, like drivers’ misjudgment during parallel parking or a limited visibility area. Drivers who park their cars improperly can also damage their vehicles.
To avoid parked car accidents, always ensure that you have a fair enough space between your car and other cars for safer maneuvering. Make sure to check your surroundings when you open your car’s door. Rearview mirrors should also be adjusted appropriately before leaving the vehicle.
You can check additional safety precautions to adopt while strolling in Dubai.
Safety Tips to Avoid Car Accidents in Dubai
You can learn more safety tips to avoid car accidents and ensure peaceful and fun driving for all Dubai residents.
- Avoid phone use while driving: Phone use is a common factor in car accidents. You should always put your phone on speaker or use a hands-free method. It is also against the law to use mobile phones while driving.
- Wearing seatbelts: It is essential to wear a seatbelt even in the back seat. Not using seatbelts can result in fines and significant damage in car accidents.
- Don’t tailgate: Tailgating is against the law and can result in a fine. Also, keeping a distance from other vehicles can reduce car accidents, especially on highways.
- Follow speed limits: Obey speed limits to avoid many accidents. It ranges from 60km/h in residential areas to 140km/h on highways.
- Vehicle maintenance: Ensure regular servicing of your car. Keep your air conditioning, tires, lights, and brakes in shape. Replacement of worn tires is crucial, especially in Dubai’s scorching heat, which has a high chance of tire blowouts.
- Master defensive driving: Keep a safe distance, even if others tailgate you. Always stay calm and avoid road rage, as aggressive behavior can escalate situations.
- Caution with buses and local transport: Give way to local transport and maintain a reasonable distance from them.
- Usage of technology: Use Navigation apps or Google Maps to avoid traffic and warn of accidents.
Conclusion
Driving in Dubai requires awareness, adherence, and patience to local traffic laws. While the city boasts the world’s best road infrastructure, the fast-paced driving culture and diverse range of motorists can pose unique challenges. By staying alert, mastering defensive driving, maintaining your vehicle, and respecting road rules, you can significantly reduce the risks of car accidents and ensure a safe driving experience for yourself and others. Safe driving is not just a legal requirement; it’s a personal responsibility to the well-being of everyone on the road.
FAQs
What Are Some Essential Driving Tips For New Drivers in Dubai?
New drivers must follow these tips for safe driving in Dubai: Alertness, adherence, and patience. The driver should also pay attention to the road and avoid any distractions.
What Do I Do If I Have a Minor Accident in Dubai?
If you have a minor car accident in Dubai, you should pull over and call the Dubai Police. You might require a police report if you claim any car insurance.
What are the Different Types of Car Accident Fines in Dubai?
If you’re not a safe driver, you can be fined up to 50,000 AED with vehicle confiscation and black points on your license.
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