DUBAI, 19th April, 2017 (WAM) -- Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered concerned authorities to exempt drivers who have committed minor motoring offences from vehicle impoundment, provided they do not have a history of major traffic violations.

His Highness also ordered the release of vehicles that have completed half of the impoundment period.

Commander-In-Chief of Dubai Police Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri praised the decision, which is in keeping with the spirit of the Year of Giving announced by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The move also aims to encourage drivers to maintain a clean driving record and give them a fresh opportunity to abide by traffic laws.

Al Marri said that eligible drivers will be able to benefit immediately from His Highness orders. He called on drivers to be more vigilant on the road to avoid accidents. He also stressed on the importance of respecting traffic rules.

The Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police also said that vehicle impoundment is a penalty aimed at preventing dangerous driving. He further said that reckless driving, racing on the road, and jumping the traffic light are dangerous offences that do not fall under the purview of the new order.

Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2017.