Jumping the red light was the main cause of accidents in the UAE in 2024, according to the latest statistics released by the Ministry of Interior.

The red light violation resulted in 271 incidents nationwide, with Abu Dhabi recording the highest number of incidents at 153, followed by 111 in Dubai, three each in Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al-Quwain, and one in Sharjah.

As per the UAE Traffic Law, motorists who jump a red light face a fine of Dh1,000, 12 black points, and the vehicle being impounded for 30 days.

Also, each emirate has its own traffic regulations in addition to the Federal Traffic Law, which may lead to stricter penalties being imposed on motorists.

In Dubai, for example, to release the vehicle from impoundment, you have to pay Dh50,000, as per Decree No. 30 of 2023.

In Abu Dhabi, under Law No. 5 of 2020 regarding the impoundment of vehicles in Abu Dhabi, the financial penalty for releasing an impounded vehicle is set at Dh50,000. The vehicle will remain impounded for up to three months or until the fine is paid. If the payment is not made, the vehicle may be sold at a public auction.

The report also revealed that 67 accidents involved individuals who did not hold a valid driving licence. Abu Dhabi had the highest number with 55 cases, while Sharjah recorded seven, Umm Al-Quwain three, and Fujairah two. Other emirates did not report any such incidents.

A major factor in accidents was drivers merging onto main roads without ensuring they were clear. A total of 223 accidents occurred due to this mistake.

Of them, 129 occurred in Abu Dhabi, 33 in Fujairah, 26 in Ras Al Khaimah, 19 in Sharjah, 12 in Umm Al Quwain and four in Ajman.

Mechanical failures and tyre blowouts were also seen to be on the rise. Abu Dhabi witnessed 26 accidents due to tyre explosions, Dubai eight and Ras Al Khaimah three.

Driving in the wrong direction caused 16 accidents in Abu Dhabi and two in Fujairah.

The ministry noted that pedestrian safety is a growing concern.

Failing to give way to pedestrians led to 96 accidents last year. Abu Dhabi recorded the highest number with 37 incidents, followed by Dubai 34, Ras Al Khaimah eight, Fujairah 15 and Sharjah two.

Earlier in the month, Gulf News published a story on how sudden swerving accounted for 827 accidents in the UAE in 2024, followed by 776 accidents due to distracted driving, according to the Ministry of Interior.

In addition to swerving and distraction, negligence and inattention led to 455 accidents across the country. Abu Dhabi recorded 77 such incidents, while Dubai saw 241, Sharjah 44, Ajman 27, Umm Al Quwain 19, Ras Al Khaimah 35, and Fujairah 12.

Overall, the ministry’s report identified 66 different causes of traffic accidents. Among them:

• Negligence and lack of attention
• Sudden swerving
• Running red lights
• Distractions while driving
• Failure to yield to pedestrians
• Speeding without considering road conditions
• Driving against traffic flow
• Reversing without checking
• Ignoring traffic signals

Authorities urged drivers to adhere to traffic laws, remain vigilant, and prioritise safety to reduce road accidents.

Stricter enforcement and awareness campaigns are crucial in preventing avoidable tragedies on the roads.