Abu Dhabi Police on Friday, September 4, warned motorists against stopping in the middle of the road after a crash triggered a series of collisions on a highway.

In a video released by Abu Dhabi Police, a white car is initially seen colliding with a pickup truck. The force of the impact sends the pickup towards the barrier in the left lane, causing it to overturn and land in the adjacent lane. The crash also appears to have damaged the road surface.

Following the crash, several vehicles stopped in the middle of the highway. Some motorists got out of their vehicles and used their mobile phone flashlights to warn approaching drivers of the obstruction ahead.

In the second part of the video, a vehicle blocking two lanes is struck by another approaching car, whose driver appears not to have noticed the obstruction in time. The impact triggered a multi-vehicle pile-up, with one vehicle eventually overturning.

Abu Dhabi Police warned that distracted driving and stopping in the middle of the road can place drivers and other road users at serious risk.

The force also urged motorists to watch the video released from the incident.

Rubbernecking at crash scenes can lead to fines

Abu Dhabi Police said stopping on the road during an emergency can pose a serious danger to other road users. Motorists were advised to continue driving, where possible, until they reach the nearest exit or a safe location.

Slowing down to view a crash scene is a traffic offence in the UAE and can result in a fine of up to AED 1,000. The behaviour, known as rubbernecking and obstructing traffic, can disrupt traffic flow, delay emergency response operations and increase the risk of secondary collisions.

Dr Mostafa Aldah, founder of MA Traffic Consulting, previously said this behaviour could fall under several categories of traffic offences under UAE law, including “obstructing traffic” or “stopping without justification”.

UAE authorities have repeatedly warned motorists against stopping in the middle of the road, highlighting the serious risks this poses to road users.

Stopping on the road without a valid reason can result in a Dh1,000 fine and six black points. In the event of a genuine vehicle breakdown, motorists are advised to move towards the nearest exit or a safe location. If the vehicle cannot be moved, they should call 999 for assistance.

Abu Dhabi Police also urged motorists to remain fully focused while driving, avoid distractions and be prepared to respond appropriately to sudden changes in traffic conditions.

The authority stressed that attentiveness and vigilance can help drivers avoid unexpected hazards and make the right decisions at the right time.

Careless driving puts lives at risk

UAE authorities have repeatedly urged motorists to remain alert and drive responsibly, warning that distraction, careless driving and unsafe stops can endanger lives.

In early 2025, Sharjah introduced steep fees for the release of impounded vehicles. For careless driving or offences such as riding motorcycles in prohibited areas, vehicle owners must pay Dh20,000 to have their impounded vehicle released. For driving without a licence, the fee rises to Dh30,000.

Abu Dhabi and Dubai have already introduced a Dh50,000 penalty for careless driving. In Ras Al Khaimah, the penalty can reach Dh20,000, with vehicles impounded for up to three months. If the fines are not paid and the vehicle is not collected within three months, it will be auctioned.

The UAE enforces strict driving laws and regulations to protect residents and tourists, including heavy penalties for speeding.

Motorists in Dubai may face fines of up to Dh2,000 and 12 black points for speeding.

A Dh50,000 penalty for careless driving is already in force in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, while Ras Al Khaimah imposes fines of up to Dh20,000 and vehicle impoundment for three months. If the fines are not paid and impounded vehicles are not collected within three months, they will be auctioned in Ras Al Khaimah.

These stringent regulations are intended to improve road safety and deter careless driving across the UAE.