Abu Dhabi Police reminded motorists to stop slowing down to watch accident scenes as they obstruct ambulances and police patrols from attending to the victims of the accident.
Colonel Ahmad Al Zuwaidi, director of traffic in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi described this as an “uncivilized behavior” that puts the lives of victims in danger.
“Rubbernecking is considered as an uncivilised type of behavior that can endanger the lives of other road users. Motorists should not slow down to watch traffic accidents, as doing so can cause further traffic congestion and prevent ambulances from arriving at the scene on time,” said Al Zuwaidi.
Abu Dhabi Police made the comment following an accident along Dubai – Al Ain Road where nine people sustained injuries after a vehicle crashed into another car parked on the side of the road.
Due to other vehicles slowing down to watch the scene, ambulance and police patrols were not able to immediately attend to the injured victims.
UAE’s amended traffic law released in 2017 states that blocking or obstructing roads is punishable by a fine of Dh1,000.