The Danger Behind Close Following on Roads

Fatal Accident on Emirates Road: Why Following Distance is Life-Threatening?

A severe traffic accident occurred on Monday afternoon in Dubai on a section of the Emirates Road, right after the Dubai Club bridge heading towards Sharjah. In the collision involving three vehicles, one person lost their life and two others were taken to the hospital with varying degrees of injuries. The Dubai Police confirmed that one of the main reasons for the accident was a driver not maintaining the expected safe following distance from the vehicle in front.

This incident regrettably highlights again how common and dangerous the issue of not maintaining following distance is on UAE roads—especially in Dubai, where the intensity of road traffic, speed, and inattention often lead to tragedy.

Details of the Accident

The accident was reported to authorities at 1:30 PM on Monday. According to the police report, a vehicle's driver was following too closely behind the car in front and couldn't brake in time. As a result of the collision, one person died on the spot, and two other passengers—who were injured in the crash—were taken to the hospital. The injuries were classified as "moderate" and "mild."

Among the vehicles involved in the accident were a passenger car and a smaller truck, with their wrecked remains depicted in a photo released by authorities. This incident again confirms that even a seemingly minor violation can have serious consequences.

The Importance of Following Distance

The head of Dubai Police's traffic department stated that rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of accidents in Dubai, and the vast majority of these result from drivers not leaving enough following distance. Observing the correct distance is not just a legal matter but a life-saving one.

According to UAE federal traffic regulations, failing to maintain following distance incurs a fine of 400 dirhams and four black points. If someone is a repeat offender, their vehicle can even be impounded for up to 30 days.

The Three-Second Rule

The RoadSafetyUAE organization and the UAE Ministry of Interior have warned that violating following distance is the third most common cause of fatal accidents in the country. The organization, therefore, recommends the application of the three-second rule:

1. Choose a fixed point on the road (such as a sign or pole).

2. When the vehicle in front passes it, count to three seconds.

3. If you reach the same point sooner, you are following too closely.

In poor visibility conditions—such as rain, sandstorms, or fog—the three seconds should be increased to at least five seconds. This is especially important in the UAE, where these weather phenomena are frequent and can occur suddenly.

Technology Against Violators

Dubai Police is not only trying to improve road safety with warnings and campaigns but also by utilizing technological tools. According to previous statements, authorities have equipped sections where "tailgating"—driving too closely—is common with radar. These systems automatically record the violation, and drivers receive the fine shortly afterward.

The aim of such developments is not punishment but prevention. Authorities aim to avoid unnecessary accidents and ensure that everyone reaches their destination safely—be it daily commuting, taking children to school, or cargo transport.

Social Responsibility and Driver Awareness

We must not forget that transportation is not just a technical or regulatory matter. It is a community responsibility that affects all participants—drivers, motorcyclists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

A single bad decision—such as an inattentive moment or a reckless maneuver—can cost human lives. Monday's accident in Dubai is a tragic reminder that every driver has the duty to stay alert, follow the rules, and drive with foresight and defensiveness.

Summary

Maintaining following distance is not just a recommendation but a cornerstone of traffic safety. The fatal accident in Dubai once again proves that rule violations—no matter how commonplace—can have severe consequences.

Dubai Police and UAE authorities are continuously working to make the roads safer. However, true change begins with each driver's attitude. Maintain a safe following distance, be attentive, and respect not only your own life but the lives of others on the roads.

(The article's source is a statement from Dubai Police.)