Cruise Control Nightmare: UAE Highway Drama

Dangerous Technology: When Cruise Control Fails – A Real Rescue Operation on a UAE Highway

Modern technology makes our lives easier, but it occasionally leads to unexpected situations that can become life-threatening. Recently, an incident in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates highlighted such risks: a driver was unable to turn off the cruise control, causing the vehicle to continue traveling at a constant speed of 80 km/h, leaving the driver without control. The promptness and professionalism of the Sharjah police brilliantly resolved the situation. This case raises awareness of the importance of being mindful while driving and emphasizes that we cannot relinquish complete control even with technological assistance.

How did the emergency start?

The vehicle was traveling from the Ahmed Bin Hadid roundabout on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed road when the driver noticed the cruise control system had malfunctioned, preventing any speed reduction. At 3:11 PM, the driver called the emergency services, and the nearest traffic patrol was alerted immediately. The rapid response of the operation center and the coordinated effort of the units prevented a potential tragedy.

Calculated Collision – Not a Film, But Reality

The arriving police unit utilized an unexpected method: one patrol vehicle positioned itself in front of the malfunctioning car and gently 'nudged' it in a controlled manner to slow down the cruise-controlled vehicle. The operation was extremely precise, considering the road surface, speed, vehicle type, and other traffic factors. The intervention concluded without any injuries or damage: neither the driver nor other road users were harmed, and no material damage occurred.

Why is a Cruise Control Malfunction Dangerous?

Most consider cruise control a convenience, especially on long drives. However, if the system fails, vehicle control becomes limited, especially in automatic transmission models. In such cases, the engine control does not allow stopping acceleration by easing off the accelerator or braking. Immediate, calm reaction is required in these situations.

What to Do in the Event of a Cruise Control Malfunction?

Following the incident, Sharjah police issued detailed guidelines for those who might find themselves in a similar situation. These instructions can be lifesaving for any driver:

1. Stay calm and hold the steering wheel firmly: Panic is one of the greatest enemies in such scenarios. Losing one’s composure can hinder making safe decisions.

2. Turn on the hazard lights: This warns those behind you that something is wrong and prompts them to maintain a greater following distance.

3. Try turning off the cruise control: The switch (usually on or near the steering wheel) may respond even if malfunctioning.

4. Shift the gear to neutral (N position): This disengages the engine from the drive, preventing further acceleration even if the cruise control remains active.

5. Slow down gradually: Continuous but not abrupt pressure on the brake pedal can help reduce speed. Avoid emergency braking to prevent locking.

6. Do not turn off the engine while driving: This could disable steering and braking assist, causing loss of vehicle control.

7. Immediately call the emergency number 999: The operational center, covering the entire UAE, can quickly dispatch help if your location is precisely conveyed.

The Role of the Authorities and the Importance of Traffic Safety

The Sharjah police exemplarily managed the situation, not only saving a person’s life but also preventing a potential mass collision. The story underscores the significance of traffic enforcement unit preparedness and emphasizes that traffic patrol training extends to resolving real-life scenarios.

These cases are not just technical failures but also stress-management challenges. One of the most complex tasks of road policing is safely halting a moving, malfunctioning vehicle while ensuring both the driver and other road users remain unharmed.

Lessons and Precautions for Drivers

Though rare, cruise control malfunctions are not impossible, especially if the vehicle is not regularly serviced, or if it stems from a manufacturing defect. Therefore, it's recommended for every driver:

Understand their car's cruise control system and its emergency shutdown options

Regularly check the vehicle’s electronics and control systems

Maintain attentiveness even when automated systems are in operation on the highway

Summary: At the Border of Man and Technology

The case clearly shows: no matter how advanced the vehicle technology, the driver’s responsibility and responsiveness are indispensable. Cruise control failure is not a sci-fi scenario but a real danger for which one must be prepared. The swift response from UAE's traffic safety authorities demonstrates how human expertise and precise procedural execution can prevent tragedy, even if technology fails.

(Source of the article: Based on a Sharjah police statement.)