Abu Dhabi Police have released footage of a serious traffic accident caused by a vehicle stopping without justification in the middle of a busy road, a reckless act that triggered a chain of crashes involving other inattentive drivers. The video, broadcast in coordination with the Command and Control Center, forms part of the police’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about dangerous road behavior. The footage, which shows several cars colliding after one vehicle came to a sudden stop, highlights the grave consequences of not paying full attention while driving. According to the Directorate of Traffic and Security Patrols, many of the vehicles involved were driven by individuals distracted by things other than the road, unable to react in time to the unexpected hazard.

Authorities clarified that stopping in the middle of the road is strictly prohibited, regardless of the reason — whether due to a tire malfunction, mechanical failure, or otherwise. Drivers are required to exit the roadway safely and head toward the nearest shoulder or designated stopping point to avoid obstructing traffic and endangering lives. If the vehicle cannot be moved, motorists must immediately call 999 to contact the Operations Room, enabling police to deploy support and minimize the risk of further accidents or traffic congestion. Additionally, other road users who encounter vehicles stopped improperly should turn on hazard lights, maintain a safe distance, and stay fully alert to avoid collisions. Police emphasized that even a momentary distraction can have catastrophic consequences, particularly in high-speed zones.

Distractions, penalties, and the law

The warning comes alongside a reminder about the legal consequences of irresponsible road behavior: Stopping randomly in the middle of the road without valid justification:

Obstructing traffic flow:Using a mobile phone or being distracted while driving:

Running a red light (motorcyclists and motorists):

These penalties reflect the UAE’s strict commitment to road safety and are designed to prevent accidents that often result in severe injuries or loss of life.

Awareness through the ‘Your Comment’ initiative

The crash footage forms part of Abu Dhabi Police’s “Your Comment” initiative, a public safety campaign where real accident clips are posted on social media to highlight the dangers of specific violations. This initiative encourages public discussion around safe driving practices, with each video serving as a real-world example of how reckless behavior can lead to devastating outcomes. Authorities reiterated their message: Stay focused, never stop in active lanes, and call 999 for help when needed. Community members are also encouraged to report illegal or unsafe road behavior using any of the police’s official communication channels.