New drive to curb jaywalking in Abu Dhabi

UAE - Last year, 48,000 pedestrians were fined after being caught crossing the road from non-designated areas or not using the zebra crossings on Abu Dhabi roads.

Jaywalking is a dangerous act and to curb it, the Abu Dhabi Police have launched a new campaign 'Safety Path'. They have called on pedestrians to use footbridges, tunnels and zebras, and follow the traffic lights at intersections.

Police said crossing from non-designated areas of the road is one of the main causes of run over accidents and people should deter from the risky practice which is punishable by law. Jaywalking invites a fine of Dh400.

Plainclothes police officers are carrying out random inspections and handing out fines to jaywalkers in Abu Dhabi and on the city outskirts, including the roads near labourers' accommodations.

Police said jaywalkers are fined to discourage them and others from crossing roads from non-designated areas as such acts put their lives in danger.

Don't use mobile phone while crossing

Traffic authorities have also warned pedestrians against using mobile phones, including chatting or writing text messages on them, while crossing the roads to avoid accidents.

Police stressed the need for drivers to be considerate and give way to pedestrians when safe to do so at uncontrolled crossings and near schools and educational institutions. "Drivers should also comply with traffic signals and drive at appropriate speed," said police.
Not giving way to pedestrians entails a Dh500 fine and six black points.

Last year, Abu Dhabi Police introduced new smart radars to detect jaywalkers and drivers who don't stop at pedestrian crossing points.
Police said the smart radar system 'Hather' (Be Careful) controls violations committed by jaywalkers and drivers so as to reduce the number of pedestrian run-overs in Abu Dhabi.