ABU DHABI // As the country’s 44th National Day approaches, police have issued regulations for motorists intending to decorate their cars in celebration.
Among the rules this year are that national statements displayed on cars not be offensive, and that national flags and posters be placed on the sides of the vehicles, or in a location that does not endanger the safety of the driver or others.
The rules are in place to ensure safety on the capital’s roads, said Brig Ghaith Al Zaabi, director general of traffic coordination at the Ministry of Interior.
“As an embodiment of the strategy to improve road safety, the ministry is keen to redouble their efforts and carry out a number of initiatives and procedures.
“This is in order to preserve the lives and safety of the citizens and residents, and to prevent accidents and the resulting injuries and fatalities that may subsequently follow.”
Other conditions apply. Motorists are reminded not to colour windscreens or black-out side or rear windows, or have too many passengers or people leaning or standing outside the vehicle’s windows, sunroof or boot.
Motorists are also not allowed to perform stunts, disrupt traffic, park in undesignated areas, equip their vehicles with speakers, modify the engine or colour of the vehicle, cover the licence plates, or use spray cans.
Neither will there be any parades other than the official one, Brig Al Zaabi said.
Anyone caught flouting the rules may have their vehicle impounded for up to one month, receive 12 to 24 black points on their licence, and be handed a fine ranging from Dh500 to Dh3,000.
During the 43rd National Day holidays 280 vehicles were impounded for one month. The drivers were each fined Dh2,000 and had 12 points added to their licences.
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