Distracted driving, particularly the use of mobile phones, remains a significant threat to road safety. Dubai Police is taking a proactive approach to combat this issue, employing advanced technology to detect and penalize offenders, regardless of tinted windows.
Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, highlighted recent cases where drivers were caught using multiple phones or reading newspapers while driving. He emphasized that advanced smart cameras can identify such violations, even through heavily tinted windshields.
Youssef Al Hansali, CEO of Vitronic Machine Vision, explained the technology behind these cameras. He stated that the system uses advanced photo technology and artificial intelligence to detect mobile phone usage, capturing images of offenders from various angles, including through tinted windows.
The consequences of distracted driving are severe. Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of Road Safety UAE, noted that texting while driving increases the risk of accidents by 20 times. Additionally, distracted drivers are four times more likely to be involved in crashes compared to focused drivers.
To deter such behavior, authorities are implementing strict penalties, including vehicle impoundment for up to 30 days, fines, and black points.
Recent accidents in Abu Dhabi, caused by distracted driving, further underscore the dangers of this behavior. Abu Dhabi Police have released videos showcasing the devastating consequences of distracted driving and have urged motorists to prioritize road safety.
By combining advanced technology with stringent enforcement, Dubai Police aims to create a safer road environment and reduce the number of accidents caused by distracted driving. Motorists are urged to cooperate with authorities and adhere to all traffic regulations to ensure the safety of themselves and others.
Source: Khaleej Times
Bd-Pratidin English/ Jisan
