Police Averts Highway Disaster with Swift Response

Critical Mechanical Failure Averted on Dubai's Busy Highway

Emirates Road has once again captured attention, but this time not due to a new bridge or infrastructure development, rather due to a dangerous yet fortunately resolved incident. A driver, traveling from Dubai towards Abu Dhabi, suddenly realized their car's cruise control system malfunctioned, not responding to either the brake or accelerator pedal. Such a situation could easily turn fatal, especially on a busy road like Emirates Road. Thanks to the swift response of the Dubai Police, a tragedy was averted.

The Severity of the Situation: Technology Fails

In modern cars, cruise control offers convenience and efficiency, especially on long highway stretches. Yet, if this system fails, it demands immediate reaction, awareness, and technical knowledge from the driver. During the incident, the car simply did not obey brake or acceleration commands, rendering it practically uncontrollable. Although such malfunctions are rare, they pose considerable risk, not only to the vehicle operator but to other road users as well.

Quick Response from Dubai Police: Key to Avoiding Accident

According to the police report, traffic patrols rushed to the scene within minutes after receiving the incident alert. Officers contacted the distressed driver via phone, providing ongoing communication to help keep the vehicle as secure as possible. Simultaneously, police patrol cars established a protective zone around the malfunctioning vehicle to prevent potential collisions.

The 'safety corridor' employed by police is a crucial tool in handling such dangerous situations. It helped clear surrounding traffic, allowing the driver the chance to gradually stop the car safely by the roadside following instructions.

Safety Advice Drivers Must Know

The police statement emphasizes that in similar situations, the most important action is to keep calm. Instead of succumbing to panic, the following steps are recommended:

Turn on the hazard lights to alert other road users of the issue.

Calmly, with a securely fastened seatbelt, call the 999 emergency number.

Attempt to shift the gear to 'N' (neutral) position.

Stop the car using the start/stop button or key, then restart it.

Apply long, continuous brake pressure—not pumping—to slow the vehicle.

Experience shows that many drivers are unaware of these fundamental steps, even though they can save lives.

The Importance of Prevention: Regular Maintenance and Awareness

The Dubai Police stressed the importance of prevention. With increasingly complex electronic systems in modern vehicles, regular servicing is vital, particularly checking braking systems, acceleration control units, and cruise control functionality. Cruise control failure can result from both mechanical and software issues, necessitating not only mechanical inspection but also diagnostic checks.

Additionally, the police highlighted that basic technical knowledge should be an integral part of the transportation culture. Knowing how to drive isn’t enough; understanding the vehicle's operation, especially in emergencies, is crucial.

Dubai Police's Exemplary Actions: Trust and Safety

This incident highlights the effectiveness of Dubai's traffic safety system, showcasing its ability to quickly coordinate interventions for public protection. The police not only reacted but proactively secured the route, communicated with the driver, and effectively saved them from a potentially lethal situation.

In such incidents, both technical and human factors are key. The patrol officers' composure, preparedness, speed, and cooperation with the driver demonstrate why Dubai's traffic authorities are deemed some of the most reliable in the region.

Final Thoughts: Learning from the Incident

Although this case ended well, it is essential to draw lessons:

Never neglect vehicle maintenance, especially automated systems.

Know what to do if the car breaks down while moving.

Trust local authorities and follow their instructions in emergencies.

And most importantly: maintain calmness, as it may be your best tool in any critical situation.

In light of the events, it is clear: while technology eases our lives, it never replaces human attention. When technology fails, quick response and cooperation can save lives, as demonstrated by Dubai police.

(The article source is Dubai Police release.)