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Driving with discipline in the UAE requires a driver to follow their lane driving rules to avoid accidents. The roads in this vibrant country are in good condition. Moreover, traffic laws are also put in place for everyone’s protection. Observing and executing lane discipline minimizes heavy collision traffic and may even cause road accidents. In this detailed blog, we will discuss rules, common fines, and the actual processes involved in changing a lane.
What Does Lane Discipline Mean?
In this a driver is not allowed to move away from his lane unless he is following the proper procedure of changing lanes. In Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and all the other emirates are very strict when it comes to lane discipline. Moreover, it also helps to control road accidents and also serves to manage movement in busy roads.
Fines for Lane Discipline in the UAE
If someone does not follow these rules, the United Arab Emirates imposes fines with the aim of maintaining flow of traffic on the roads. Such fines/penalties are applicable across the Emirates like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
| Violation | Fine (AED) | Black Points |
| Lane indiscipline (not following proper lanes) | 400 | 0 |
| Failure of a light vehicle to abide by lane discipline | 400 | 0 |
| Reckless lane changing | 1,000 | 4 |
| Overtaking from the right (when not allowed) | 600 | 6 |
| Blocking the left lane and delaying faster vehicles | 400 | 0 |
| Failure to maintain a safe distance | 400 | 4 |
The lane discipline fine in Dubai, lane discipline fine in Abu Dhabi, and lane discipline fine in Sharjah are monitored by smart cameras. Not following lane discipline could lead to significant fines and black points, which can lead to the suspension of driving license or even vehicle confiscation in extreme situations.
Rules for Changing Lanes in the UAE
Inappropriate lane shifting is one of the main reasons for road traffic accidents in this region. The following are important lane changing rules in the UAE:
Signalling
Always remember to use the relevant signal when you wish to change your lanes so other drivers are well-informed.
Checking Mirrors
Turn your side and rearview mirrors to determine if that lane is free.
Checking Blind Spots
Move your head a little as it is helpful to see areas that are not visible in mirrors.
Speed Level
While adjusting lanes, do not decelerate drastically.
Safety Consideration
It is good to make a change when you are confident that the lane is free and safe.
5 Steps to Properly Change Lanes While Driving
If you are willing to save yourself from accidents than these below 5 proper steps in making a lane change are useful:
Always Check the Front and Back First: Always take overview of traffic that is in your lane and the lane you want to merge into.
Activate Your Turn Signals: Make sure to signal other drivers of an impending lane change several seconds before doing so.
Look At Your Blind Spots and Mirrors: Check your mirrors and turn to look out for any cars in the blind spots.
Control Your Vehicle Speed: If another driver needs to change lanes quickly, let them do so and then proceed to adjust your speed.
Smoothly Change Lanes: Make the lane change without jerky movements.
By following these steps you will complete a proper lane change with no infringement of the UAE traffic laws.
Rules on Overtaking a Vehicle on the Right Side in the UAE
Normally, overtaking from the right (as opposed to from the left) is not allowed in the UAE. Nevertheless, there are particular circumstances when it is permissible to pass from the right side in the UAE:
- If left lanes are blocked and there is less traffic in the middle or right-hand lanes, you can pass on the right side.
- If a vehicle in the front is getting ready to make a left turn, the driver can pass on the right side.
- On multi-lane roads that have signs allowing overtaking vehicles on the right side, you can pass on the right side.
If a driver passes on the right side by not following rules then he can be penalized AED 600 and 6 black points on his driving record.
Discipline Violation for Lane Usage and Their Consequences
Let’s take a look at some of the common discipline violations for lanes and their consequences:
- A light vehicle that does not abide by lane discipline, it’s fine is normally around AED 400. Moreover, this fine is for drifting or not staying in your lane.
- Reckless abandon of lane changing resulted in 4 black points and AED 1000 fine. In addition, changing lanes without signalling or checking the blind spots is also included in it.
- Tailgating or driving too close will result in AED 400 fine and 4 black points.
Tips to Avoid Fines of Lane Discipline
These tips will ensure you do not get fined for violating discipline of lanes in UAE:
Remain in the designated lane: The left lanes are for overtaking only while the right lanes are for slow moving vehicles.
Adhere to set speed limits: Do not exceed the speed limit to avoid unnecessary lane changes.
Use indication signs: Always use signals to change lanes.
Adhere to Traffic Signs: It is good to follow sign boards that direct lane markings on main roads or highways.
Consideration of other drivers: Do not enable left lane blockage and also do not swap lanes without warning.
