Sharjah Police have issued a fresh warning against tailgating after footage emerged showing a speeding motorcycle slams into a slowing car throwing the rider off his bike on impact.
The video was released as part of the force’s #BeSmart campaign on Friday, September 11, and showed the motorcyclist pulling up fast in the left-hand lane of the road ahead of the car which had slowed to pull in.
Authorities used the clip as a reminder for motorists to keep a decent distance from the vehicle which is in front of them, adding that waiting an extra couple of seconds before pulling in can make all the difference.
They also reminded drivers to stay alert at the wheel, avoid distractions and stay prepared to react to any sudden movements.
Tailgating is a violation of the UAE’s road safety rules and carries a Dh400 fine and four black points on the driver’s licence. Repeated offences can see vehicles impounded for up to 30 days. Authorities in the Emirates are currently cracking down on dangerous driving.
Dubai Police have previously confirmed that radar systems are being used specifically to detect and fine tailgating violations, alongside newer systems capable of catching vehicles that produce excessive noise — an offence carrying a Dh2,000 fine and 12 black points.
Penalties escalate further for reckless driving nationwide. Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai impose a Dh50,000 fine for reckless conduct on the road, while Ras Al Khaimah enforces fines of up to Dh20,000 alongside a three-month vehicle impoundment; unclaimed vehicles are eventually auctioned.
In Sharjah, drivers whose vehicles are impounded over reckless driving or restricted-area motorcycle use must pay Dh20,000 to reclaim them, a figure that rises to Dh30,000 for unlicensed driving.
Speeding remains one of the most heavily fined violations in the country, with Dubai motorists facing penalties of up to Dh2,000 and 12 black points for exceeding limits.
Traffic authorities say the layered penalty system, combined with regular public-awareness campaigns, is aimed at reducing preventable accidents caused by unsafe following distances and distracted driving across the UAE’s road network.
