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Imagine being a learner driver in the UAE, and you suddenly swerve while driving, committing a traffic violation. Who will get the penalty? In this article, we’ll explore the rules and regulations surrounding traffic fines for learner drivers in the UAE.

The Scenario

Meet Myla, a learner driver who got distracted while driving and swerved suddenly. In the UAE, such an action would result in a fine of Dh1,000 and four black points on the licence. But since Myla is still a learner, who will pay the penalty?

The Answer

According to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), if anyone commits a traffic violation while learning to drive, the driving institute is fined.

Instructor’s Responsibilities

Wajahat Noor, manager of the Instructor Training Centre at Emirates Driving Institute (EDI), explained that instructors are responsible for the safety of the learner, the training vehicle, and other road users. “There are many difficult situations where learners are vulnerable to committing mistakes, hence instructors need to be extra cautious in any given situation,” Noor said.

Proper Guidance and Instructions

Noor emphasized that professional driving instructors must provide proper guidance and instructions to their students, ensuring they understand the rules and are patient while teaching. Instructors must also remain calm and focused while on the road, providing immediate feedback to help learners develop their driving skills.

Focus on Novice Drivers

Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, stressed the importance of focusing on novice drivers, citing that 15% of major accidents were caused by new driving licence holders in 2023.

Safe Driving Habits

Edelmann called for mandatory road safety curriculum in schools and revisiting driving school curricula to instill safe driving habits from an early age. He also shared essential safety reminders for all motorists, including wearing seatbelts, obeying speed limits, and avoiding distractions while driving.

In conclusion, it’s crucial for learner drivers, driving instructors, and stakeholders to prioritize road safety in the UAE. By working together, we can reduce the number of accidents on our roads and ensure a safer driving experience for all.