Sharjah Police on Friday, September 11, renewed its call for motorists to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, warning that tailgating can leave drivers with insufficient time to react to sudden stops.

In a video released by police, a motorcycle is seen travelling at high speed in the far-left lane before crashing into a vehicle that slows down ahead, throwing the rider to the ground.

Police stressed that maintaining a safe following distance provides drivers with a few extra seconds to react and stop safely. Motorists should also remain fully focused, avoid distractions and be prepared for sudden changes in traffic.

🟢 Fine for Failing to Maintain a Safe Distance

Failing to maintain a sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead in the UAE carries a fine of AED 400 and four black points. Sharjah Police previously said that, in some cases, vehicles involved in this offence may be impounded for up to 30 days.

In Dubai, radar systems are also used to detect this offence automatically.

Dubai’s advanced radars can also detect other offences, such as vehicles causing excessive noise. The penalty is a fine of AED 2,000 and 12 black points.

🟢 High Fees for Releasing Impounded Vehicles

In addition to fines, the UAE imposes substantial fees for the release of vehicles impounded for reckless driving and certain dangerous offences.

In Sharjah, releasing a vehicle impounded for reckless driving or riding a motorcycle in prohibited areas can cost AED 20,000. The fee rises to AED 30,000 for driving without a licence.

In Abu Dhabi and Dubai, vehicle release fees can reach AED 50,000 in some reckless driving cases. In Ras Al Khaimah, the fee can be as high as AED 20,000, and the vehicle may be impounded for three months.

If the owner fails to pay the fines and does not claim the vehicle within three months, it may be put up for auction.

UAE authorities say these penalties are intended to curb dangerous driving, distracted driving and speeding, while improving safety for motorists, residents and tourists.