Abu Dhabi driver jailed and fined 70,000 dirhams after dangerous road swerve caught on camera/Photo – File
An Abu Dhabi court issued a severe sentence against a driver whose dangerous behavior on the public road endangered the lives of other motorists. The Abu Dhabi Criminal Court sentenced the man to six months in prison, a fine of 70,000 dirhams, and ordered the suspension of his driving license for a year after he was convicted of reckless driving.This ruling comes at a time when the UAE authorities continue their zero-tolerance approach towards serious traffic crimes, warning that reckless driving is not just a traffic violation, but a criminal act that can have devastating consequences.
Reckless driving in Abu Dhabi
According to the Public Prosecution in Abu Dhabi, investigations revealed that the driver deliberately swerved his vehicle repeatedly while driving on the public road, and performed dangerous maneuvers that endangered his life and the safety of other road users.The authorities discovered the reckless driving incident, arrested the driver, and referred him to the Public Prosecution. The case was then quickly referred to the Criminal Court.During the trial, prosecutors relied on evidence including police reports, investigative records, technical findings and surveillance camera footage that documented the driver’s dangerous behavior. After examining the evidence, the court found the charges proven and ruled that the defendant had intentionally engaged in conduct that constituted a serious threat to public safety.
The driver was sentenced to 70,000 dirhams in prison
In addition to the six-month prison sentence, the court imposed a fine of 50,000 dirhams for the crime of reckless driving. It also ordered the driver to pay an amount of 20,000 dirhams, representing the estimated value of the vehicle used during the crime, because it is owned by another person and cannot be confiscated under the applicable legal provisions.The court also ruled to suspend his driving license for a year, with the suspension taking effect after the end of his prison term.Taken together, the ruling means that the offender will spend time in prison, pay a total of 70,000 dirhams, and will remain banned from driving for a year after his release.
UAE authorities warn against reckless driving
Following the issuance of the ruling, the Public Prosecution in Abu Dhabi renewed its warning to motorists, urging drivers to adhere to traffic laws and be careful behind the wheel.The Authority stressed that dangerous driving behaviors, including reckless deviation and maneuvers that endanger lives, carry serious criminal consequences under UAE law. Such crimes not only threaten the safety of motorists and pedestrians, but can also result in imprisonment, large fines, license suspension, and vehicle-related penalties depending on the circumstances of each case.The latest ruling reinforces Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to improve road safety and deter dangerous driving, and sends a clear message that behavior that puts people’s lives at risk will be met with prompt prosecution and strict punishment.
