UAE New Traffic Safety Rule for Minimum Speed Limit in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Police's decision to implement a minimum speed limit on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Road has gained overwhelming support from the residents, with 78 percent of people voting in favor of the action, according to a recent poll conducted on social media. The police announced last month that starting from May 1, a minimum speed of 120kmph would be enforced on the two leftmost lanes of the 140kmph road, and violators would face a fine of Dh400 for driving below the speed limit on these lanes.

Enhancing Road Safety

The police explained that the aim of activating the minimum speed limit is to ensure and enhance road safety. By ensuring that all vehicles on the fast lanes are driving within a 20kmph margin of the maximum speed limit, which is 140kmph on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Road, the severity of accidents can be reduced if they occur. Moreover, with fewer vehicles on the two lanes, motorists will always make way for emergency vehicles, further improving road safety.

Lanes Designation and Enforcement

The minimum speed of 120kmph will apply on the first and second lanes from the left, while slower vehicles will be allowed to use the third lane, where no minimum speed is specified. It's important to note that heavy vehicles, which are expected to use the last lane of the road, will not be covered by the minimum speed rule. Warning notices will be issued to those caught driving below 120kmph on the designated lanes once the rule comes into effect in April, and a fine of Dh400 will apply to start from May 1, as stated by the authorities.

Support from Road Users

The announcement of the minimum speed implementation has received messages of support from road users. Many drivers believe that it will help regulate the flow of traffic on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Road, as there are certain types of drivers who do not respect their fellow drivers and often drive at slow speeds on the fast lanes, causing congestion and posing risks to other motorists. The implementation of the minimum speed limit is seen as a positive step towards improving road safety and ensuring smooth traffic flow.

Importance of Adhering to Traffic Rules

Maj-Gen Ahmed Saif bin Zaytoun Al Muhairi, director of the Central Operations Sector, emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic rules and maintaining road safety. He stated that implementing the minimum speed limit is aimed at boosting road safety and urging slow vehicles to use appropriate lanes. He also reminded drivers to always ensure that roads are clear before changing lanes and to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.