Dubai Police have confiscated 640 bicycles and e-scooters this month due to various infractions, including speeding, riding in undesignated areas, traveling against traffic, and not wearing safety gear. These violations not only breach traffic laws but also pose significant risks to the riders and others on the road.
Authorities highlighted that these riders “put their lives and the lives of others at risk,” emphasizing the importance of adhering to traffic regulations.
Maj Gen Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi outlined several fines associated with e-scooter and bicycle violations:
- Riding an e-bike or bicycle on roads with speed limits over 60kmph: Dh300 fine.
- Riding a bike in a manner that endangers the rider or others: Dh300 fine.
- Carrying a passenger on an e-scooter: Dh300 fine.
- Transporting a passenger on an e-bike or bicycle not equipped for that purpose: Dh200 fine.
- Riding an e-scooter or bicycle against the flow of traffic: Dh200 fine.
Al Ghaithi urged all riders to strictly adhere to traffic and safety guidelines and encouraged the public to report dangerous behaviors through the 'Police Eye' service on the Dubai Police app or by calling the 'We Are All Police' service at 901.
Accidents and Violations This Year
Dubai Police reported that four people died in separate incidents involving e-scooters and bicycles in the first half of 2024, with 25 injuries recorded from January to June. Over 7,800 traffic violations were documented in the first six months, leading to the confiscation of 4,474 e-scooters and bicycles. This translates to an average of 43 traffic violations and the seizure of 24 e-scooters or bicycles daily.
Public Concerns
E-scooters have grown in popularity among Dubai residents, but concerns over reckless riding have been raised by both pedestrians and motorists. Riders are frequently seen ignoring traffic rules, riding on pedestrian paths, and even using their devices on highways.
Fatima El Hamed, an Egyptian resident in Al Majaz, Sharjah, shared her concerns:
“I request authorities to be more vigilant to curb the rise in dangerous behaviors among some riders. Many are seen riding on pedestrian paths, ignoring traffic signals, and even using their devices on highways.”
In March, Dubai Police considered the idea of registering e-scooters, suggesting that a number plate or unique ID could help identify e-scooters and require riders to secure individual driving permits. Road safety experts believe this move could raise awareness that e-scooters are legitimate vehicles, resulting in more considerate and safe riding.
News Source: Khaleej Times
