Dubai: Dubai Police have warned motorists against driving while tired or drowsy following a traffic accident on Emirates Road E611 in which a truck crashed into a metal safety barrier after its driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel.
The accident occurred on Emirates Road E611, after Dubai Flyover towards Abu Dhabi, when the driver became drowsy, lost control of the truck and veered off course.
The vehicle struck a metal barrier before coming to rest off the road. The driver sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment at the scene.
Fatigue can lead to loss of vehicle control
Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, warned that driving while fatigued significantly affects a motorist’s concentration, alertness and ability to respond quickly to unexpected situations.
He explained that tiredness can impair reaction times and decision making, increasing the risk of losing control, drifting out of lane or colliding with roadside barriers and other vehicles.
“Driving while tired or exhausted reduces a driver’s ability to concentrate and respond to sudden situations on the road. This can lead to a loss of control, collisions and serious risks to drivers, passengers and other road users,” Brigadier bin Suwaidan said.
A few seconds of inattention can be dangerous
Brigadier bin Suwaidan stressed that drowsiness and falling asleep while driving are dangerous behaviours that require greater public awareness and strict adherence to road safety precautions.
He explained that drivers experiencing fatigue may lose the ability to control their vehicles safely, even when they believe they are capable of continuing their journeys.
“A driver may believe they can continue driving despite feeling exhausted, but losing concentration for just a few seconds can result in a collision with a safety barrier or cause the vehicle to leave the road,” he warned.
He added that drowsiness affects alertness and the speed at which drivers make decisions, significantly increasing the likelihood of serious traffic accidents.
Dubai Police urge drivers to rest before travelling
Brigadier bin Suwaidan urged motorists to get sufficient rest before driving, particularly when preparing for journeys that require sustained concentration.
He emphasised the importance of recognising the early signs of fatigue and stopping immediately when feeling tired or drowsy rather than attempting to continue driving.
He also reminded drivers to remain within designated lanes, follow traffic safety instructions and maintain full attention to road conditions.
“Getting adequate rest before driving and stopping as soon as fatigue sets in are essential precautions that can prevent serious accidents and protect lives,” he said.
Aman Roads
Brigadier bin Suwaidan encouraged motorists and other road users to visit the road safety awareness platform (Aman Roads) at www.amanroads.gov.ae
The platform provides educational resources, safety guidance and information on dangerous driving behaviours to help improve road safety awareness and promote responsible driving.
Dubai Police reaffirmed that raising awareness of unsafe driving practices and encouraging motorists to adopt safer habits are essential to reducing traffic accidents and protecting lives and property.