Abu Dhabi: Drivers are urged to be cautious when driving in changing weather conditions that may cause low visibility in some areas due to fog in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Police Traffic and Patrols Directorate said on Sunday.
The directorate also encouraged motorists to pay more attention while driving in the rain, and to refrain from braking suddenly as this may cause the vehicle to slide due to the reduced efficiency of brakes on wet surfaces
Lt Col Jamal Salem Al Ameri, Chief of Public Relations Section at the Traffic and Patrols Directorate, Abu Dhabi Police, recommended drivers follow the weather forecasts in order to be prepared to drive in any weather condition. He emphasised the importance of leaving sufficient space between vehicles, to avoid overtaking other vehicles, and to drive at an appropriate speed suitable for the surrounding conditions.
Lt Col Al Ameri warned drivers against using their hazard lights and to use low-beam lights in foggy conditions. People should only use their hazard signals to indicate that they have come to a stop, or if there is a risk on the road. “Over the past 10 months of 2014, there have been 14 fog-related traffic accidents in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Of these accidents, there were two fatalities and two serious injuries,” he said.
“Drivers should ensure the quality and efficiency of their brakes and wipers, and reduce the pressure applied on the brakes while stopping or slowing down. Should the vehicle begin to slide due to wet surfaces, drivers should press the brakes gradually until the vehicle stops sliding,” said Lt Col Al Ameri. In the event of a heavy storm, he warned drivers against parking under trees, phone and electricity towers, or billboards and construction sites.
“If there is a minor accident or a sudden mechanical breakdown of the vehicle during conditions of fog or rain, drivers must remove their vehicles from the road and park in the nearest safe zone,” he said. Abiding by such protocol ensures both the safety of the driver and a smooth flow of traffic. Failure to remove the vehicle from the road will result in a fine of Dh200.
Addressing school bus drivers, Lt Col Al Ameri said: “In order to avoid any accident that may injure students, drivers must reduce their speed in foggy and rainy conditions, both at the beginning and end of their shifts.”
