The popularity of e-scooters in Dubai has skyrocketed due to their reputation as a clean and efficient means of mobility. However, there has been a price to pay for this increase; there has been an alarming rise in the number of e-scooter-related incidents in the city during the past eight months.
E-Scooter Accidents in Dubai Claim Five Lives and Injure Dozens
In Dubai, 32 accidents involving e-scooters resulted in 5 fatalities and 29 injuries, according to police data. Injuries were 16, with 14 classified as moderate and 2 as severe, reflecting worsening safety concerns.
Cracking Down on Violations
In response to the rising number of accidents, the police have taken stringent measures to curb violations. Over 10,000 fines have been imposed on e-scooter riders within the past eight months. Authorities have identified a range of traffic violations linked to improper e-scooter usage.
Safety Guidelines and Violations
Major-General Saif Muhair Al Mazroui, director of the traffic department, emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines. Violations such as riding e-scooters on main roads, using them against traffic, or allowing children under 16 to operate the scooters have garnered fines of Dh300. Such violations not only endanger the riders themselves but also pose risks to other road users.
Safety First
Al Mazroui urged e-scooter riders to prioritize safety by strictly following all relevant traffic regulations. This includes adhering to traffic lights, respecting road signs, and sticking to designated paths. Furthermore, it is essential for e-scooters to be equipped with the necessary safety features, such as bright white and reflective lights at the front and bright red and reflective lights at the back. Having functioning brakes is also imperative.
As e-scooters continue to play a significant role in Dubai's transportation landscape, ensuring riders' safety and raising awareness about proper usage have become top priorities. With fines in place to deter reckless behavior and a push for responsible e-scooter usage, authorities aim to strike a balance between the convenience of e-scooters and the safety of all road users.
