Abu Dhabi: Motorists who do not move their cars to the side of the road after a minor accident will be fined Dh500 starting December, Abu Dhabi Police announced on Saturday.

Brigadier-General Ahmad Abdullah Al Shehi, deputy director of the Traffic and Patrols Department, called on drivers to not block the flow of traffic if they had a small accident or a sudden mechanical problem, citing safety concerns as one of the main reasons for the new fine. Brig-Gen Al Shehi urged drivers to move their vehicles to a place of safety in such situations to avoid any risks.

He pointed out that many serious accidents causing injuries have occurred in the past as a result of drivers blocking the road with their cars after minor accidents. Other motorists have to change lanes due to the blocking vehicle, which often leads to collisions.