Yahoo News 
Tougher penalties introduced for drivers in UAE who go 60kph above limit
Traffic chiefs in the UAE have increased the penalties for dangerous motorists who clock up speeds more than 60kph over the limit.
The news comes as it was revealed that 6,326 death-wish speeders were caught breaking the speed limit by more than 60kph on Abu Dhabi’s roads in the first three months of 2014.
Abu Dhabi Traffic and Patrols Directorate said the speeding motorists were mostly caught by speed cameras, mobile and fixed radars and police patrol officers. Drivers caught exceeding the speed limit by at least 60kph will now face a fine of Dhs2,000, compared with the previous fine of Dhs1,000, with 12 black points added to their licence. The vehicle will also be seized for two months.
Col. Hamad Nasser Al Balushi, director of traffic in Abu Dhabi’s Outer Region, said: “Traffic authorities have toughened measures especially on motorists who drive above maximum speed limit set on various roads of Abu Dhabi.”
The officer said police have increased the number of patrols, radars and surveillance cameras on all dangerous roads in the emirate. “We are tracking traffic offenders to catch them as we want to promote safety on roads,” he added. He said the force wants to deter motorists from speeding as it fights to reduce fatal accidents.
“The traffic department is gradually targeting zero deaths on roads by curbing accidents through intensification of traffic patrols and speed camera, coupled with more media awareness campaigns,” said Al Balushi.
Traffic authorities said studies show that most traffic accidents in Abu Dhabi are caused by speeding, use of the phone while driving, recklessness, not leaving enough distance between vehicles, and drivers’ inattentiveness.
Abu Dhabi traffic police said they have stepped up patrol cars on various roads to monitor traffic flow, and have distributed awareness leaflets among motorists, giving tips on safe driving and how to avoid accidents.
ismail@7days.ae
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