A distracted driver in Abu Dhabi caused a devastating collision involving at least seven vehicles stuck in traffic, as shown in a police video released on Friday.
The Abu Dhabi Police issued a stern warning to motorists: Avoid all forms of distractions while driving. In a 33-second video shared by the police on Friday, a white van is seen crashing into a line of vehicles, as if the driver failed to notice the traffic congestion. While other vehicles on the lane slowed down, the van continued at its speed, approaching the traffic jam without braking. The driver then crashed the van into a sedan, which in turn hit an SUV, causing a chain reaction that involved several other vehicles.
At least seven vehicles were involved in the pile-up, including a delivery motorcycle on the side of the road. The accident underscored the dangers of using mobile phones—whether for browsing social media, making calls, or taking pictures—while driving, according to the Abu Dhabi Police. They emphasized that any form of distraction could lead to serious accidents.
Distracted driving, a leading cause of crashes in the country, is a serious traffic offense punishable by a Dh800 fine and four black points, the police noted in their advisory. In Dubai, more severe penalties were recently introduced for such violations. In addition to fines, the emirate's police now impound vehicles for 30 days for offenses like using phones while driving, tailgating, and sudden deviation.
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