Stricter Traffic Rules for Young Drivers in Abu Dhabi
In a bid to enhance road safety and responsibility among young drivers, Abu Dhabi Police have implemented stricter regulations for motorists under the age of 21. These new measures focus on probationary license holders, aiming to reduce traffic violations and promote safer driving habits.
New Penalties for Probationary Drivers
Abu Dhabi Police have announced that if drivers under 21 accumulate the maximum number of traffic points during their probationary period, their licenses will be revoked. This revocation means they will be ineligible to apply for a new license for one year. Lieutenant Colonel Saeed Khalfan Al Kaabi from the Traffic Points Program Department emphasized that these measures are designed to instill a sense of responsibility among young drivers.
Under the federal traffic law, drivers are assigned points for various violations, which remain on their record for one year unless the total reaches 24 points. If this limit is reached, the driver faces license suspension and must choose between a fixed suspension period or completing a rehabilitation program.
Consequences for Young Drivers
For those under 21 with probationary licenses, the consequences are particularly severe. If they reach the 24-point threshold, they can either accept a six-month suspension or pay Dh2,400 to attend a one-day traffic offender rehabilitation course. However, if they accumulate 24 points again during their trial period, their license will be revoked entirely, preventing them from applying for a new one for a full year.
In contrast, drivers aged 21 and older with permanent licenses face a three-month suspension for a first-time accumulation of 24 points, with the option to attend a rehabilitation program. If they repeat the violation within a year, the suspension period increases to six months.
High-Risk Violations
Al Kaabi highlighted the dangers associated with serious traffic violations that carry high penalty points, such as running a red light (12 points) and endangering lives (23 points). These offenses are significant contributors to fatal accidents, underscoring the importance of adherence to traffic laws.
During a recent broadcast of the ‘Amn wa Aman’ (Safety and Security) program, Al Kaabi discussed various services available to help drivers manage their traffic points and regain their licenses. Drivers with 8 to 23 points can voluntarily enroll in a points reduction program, which includes attending an educational session and paying Dh800 to deduct eight points from their record.
Educational Initiatives
The educational sessions offered cover essential topics such as the traffic points system, the consequences of point accumulation, and road safety principles. These programs are available at several locations in Abu Dhabi, including the Mussafah Traffic Points Department, the Al Ain branch, and the Zayed City branch in the Al Dhafra region.
The Abu Dhabi Police have made it clear that the goal of these initiatives is not merely punitive but rather educational. They aim to reform driving behavior, raise awareness about traffic safety, and foster a culture of responsibility among all road users.
“Traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Al Kaabi stated, urging all drivers to respect traffic laws and serve as role models for safe driving.
FAQs
What happens if a young driver accumulates 24 points during their probationary period?
If a young driver under 21 accumulates 24 points during their probationary period, their license will be revoked, and they will not be able to apply for a new license for one year.
Are there any programs available to help reduce traffic points?
Yes, drivers with 8 to 23 points can enroll in a points reduction program, which includes attending an educational session and paying Dh800 to deduct eight points from their record.
What are the penalties for drivers aged 21 and older who accumulate 24 points?
Drivers aged 21 and older who accumulate 24 points for the first time face a three-month suspension or can attend a rehabilitation program. If they repeat the violation within a year, the suspension increases to six months.
Conclusion
The new regulations for young drivers in Abu Dhabi reflect a commitment to improving road safety and encouraging responsible driving behavior. By implementing stricter penalties and educational programs, authorities aim to reduce traffic violations and promote a culture of safety on the roads. Moving forward, it is crucial for all drivers to adhere to traffic laws and participate in available educational initiatives.
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