Eight people lost their lives and three sustained serious injuries in 73 traffic roads where motorists failed to keep a safe distance between vehicles, during the first four months of the year, revealed Police statistics.
According to the statistics, traffic police booked 5,150 violations for not leaving enough distance between vehicles.
''Tailgating was one of the main causes of traffic accidents between January and April,'' said Col. Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Director of Main Roads at the Directorate of Traffic and Patrols of Abu Dhabi Police.
"Failing to maintain a sufficient distance between vehicles increases the risk of rear-end collisions as motorists do not have sufficient time or distance to stop, should the vehicle travelling ahead, in front, opt for a sudden and unexpected halt," stated Col. Al Zeyoudi.
He warned motorists against closely following and harassing other motorists, sounding horns frequently and flashing headlights, to force motorists to give way to them.
''Such harassment distracts the attention of other motorists and increases the risk of serious accidents,'' he added.
He urged motorists, especially young drivers, to be vigilant and maintain a safe distance between vehicles for their own safety and the safety of others.
Tailgating results in a fine of AED400 and four black points on the motorist's traffic record, under Ministerial Resolution 178 (2017).
 
Source: WAM