ABU DHABI, July 11: The Abu Dhabi Police have issued a strong warning to motorists about the dangers of distracted driving, particularly the use of mobile phones while behind the wheel. Activities such as browsing the internet, using social media, making calls, and taking photos can significantly impair a driver's attention and lead to serious accidents, authorities cautioned.

Drivers caught engaging in such behavior will face a fine of AED 800 and four black points on their driving record.

To highlight the risks, police shared footage of two recent accidents caused by driver distraction:

In the first incident, a white SUV is seen speeding in the fast lane but fails to notice a long queue of stationary vehicles ahead. The driver attempts a last-minute maneuver but crashes into the SUV in front, coming to a sudden halt.

The second crash was even more severe. A black SUV, traveling at high speed, fails to detect stopped traffic in the first two lanes. In a desperate attempt to avoid a collision, the driver swerves from the fast lane into the second lane, clips a vehicle in the first lane, and then crashes into another SUV. The force of the impact causes one of the struck vehicles to overturn, while the distracted driver’s car slams into the roadside safety barrier before stopping.

Authorities reiterated that staying focused while driving is crucial for road safety and urged all motorists to avoid using mobile phones or engaging in any activity that diverts attention from the road.